Manager Spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers. This week in the spotlight is Simon King!

How long have you worked in Management?
I’ve been managing full time for 10 years but have been managing various clients on the side of a day job for 10 years before that.

Who do you manage now?
I manage Brit Award winning artist Tom Walker, a new development artist called Jalle, a hit writer/ producer called Hight and a new writer/production duo The Nocturns.

Where did you find your first client and what inspired you to take them on? 
Most of my clients I’ve found through referrals or recommendations. I normally look for an artist who has real personality or connection in their songwriting, a unique or interesting vocal, and the desire to learn and grow.

What’s a good/bad day at work look like for you? 
Most days have good and bad bits but I love problem solving so a good day is one that I’ve turned around from starting off as a bad one. A good day is always one when I find or help create an opportunity for one of our clients or help them take another step in their career.

What has been the highlight of your management career to date? 
I think there have been some amazing career moments involving all of my clients over the years but the week that Tom Walker won his Brit Award followed by having a No. 1 album was definitely up there.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2020?
I think right now it’s about finding new ways of working as a manager during the Covid-19 lockdown and helping our clients adapt. Without face to face interaction songwriters have to adapt to online writing sessions and artists have to really step up their social media game to grow their careers.

What music are you currently listening to? 
All sorts from BENEE and Powfu to Paul Weller and Cosmo Sheldrake.. a real mix.