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

How long have you worked in Management?

I have worked in music management for 10 years + and management for about 7 years.

Who do you manage now?

I co-manage Lost Girl on the music side and Jeremiah Emmanuel on the creative side. Lost Girl is a singer songwriter and Jeremiah Emmanuel is an entrepreneur, youth activist and author. He also runs a music and entertainment company called Just Ents which I have consulted for and still do some ad hoc work for.

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

My clients usually come about after building a relationship with them. I think it’s important to build relationships with talent before you take them on as a client and start to manage their affairs. Being a manager involves everything and you have to genuinely care about them and have their best interest at heart.

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

I think having some me time is really important for me. I never knew what me time looked like a few years ago! My wellbeing is really important to me, by nature I tend to put everyone and everything before me. I am passionate about being of service, but I’m also passionate about being holistically well (mind, body and spirit) as you can’t serve others if you haven’t served yourself first.

What has beenthehighlight of your management career to date?

Working with Artists such as Tinie Tempah and Wiz Kid has been my highlight. And working across major collaborations with people like Stormzy, Rita Ora and Calvin Harris.

What do you think arethebig challenges for a manager in 2021?

Covid. Nobody knows where the world is going.

What music are you currently listening to?

Lost Girl and Tems.