Manager Spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers. This week in the spotlight is Ellie Giles.

How long have you worked in Management? 

Around 8-9 years now (I can’t remember), feel confident in the role now, took me a good 2-3 years to mountain climb, so much to learn, in fact I would say I’m still learning on a daily basis, any manager who says otherwise is arrogant.

Who do you manage now?

Adam Noble (Producer/Mixer), Bill Ryder-Jones (Artist/Producer), Charlie Russell (Producer/Mixer), Erland Cooper (Artist/Composer/Producer) and Warmduscher (Band)

Where did you find your first client and what inspired you to take them on?

My first client was a producer, I realised after A&R that it wasn’t for me, just felt like I wasn’t moving or learning anymore and it felt the right step for me. He had done some great records and was hugely motivated and talented.

What’s a good/bad day at work look like for you? 

Good day is when you have an idea or a plan that executes well and that the whole team are motivated and working well together. Bad day was yesterday when we had to postpone a whole tour for Warmduscher, that just sucks, especially as they needed the cash but equally health is more important right now.

What has been the highlight of your management career to date?

I don’t have a highlight but think it’s the little wins on a weekly level that I love. One of my producers making an outstanding record or one of my artists getting an insane review. The little wins keep me driving forward.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2020?

Coronavirus. A lot of artists didn’t have the insurance that made a claim possible. It’s hugely impacting both the finances of the artist and the management community. Plus even if you had insurance the lack of strong words from this country’s leader has meant we are in stasis, we need him to make a call in stopping all shows, this would help the community a great deal as we could then look at getting some monies back. Plus at the moment there is no help for the self employed right now which is just so sad. I know so many artists who are really in a pickle with all this.

On top of this, I would say the digital landscape, the amount of things to consider on a daily basis and how you manage that with a work/life balance. Making sure you look after you as well as looking after your clients and team.

What music are you currently listening to?

A lot of soul and funk to keep the positivity flowing.