Manager Spotlight: Nina Smith

01 February 2024

The manager spotlight offers a small insight into the heads of incredible managers.⁠ This week in the spotlight is Nina Smith!

How long have you worked in Management?

7 years (not including the 2 covid years).

Could you share some information about the artists and creative talent currently on your roster?

Tonia, Alfie Sharp, FamilyFriend, 4NOA.

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

I found my first client Alfie Sharp through a non-profit label I was heading up through an organisation called Inspire Youth Arts. I began developing him as an artist when he was 15 years old. His voice and tenacity inspired me to begin working with him. I was drawn to his story and beautiful voice.

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

A good day for me is when I have completed all of my tasks for artist/partnerships, and the clients are happy. A bad day is artists chasing me relentlessly on tasks they can quite easily do themselves.

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

Watching Alfie Sharp perform his new single in a beautiful venue with a 60 piece orchestra. Following a few wobbly years with him considering quitting music, it was beautiful to witness.

What do you think are the big challenges for a manager in 2024?

I think market saturation and the lack of development deals from labels due to their gravitation to TikTok influencers.

Why would you recommend the MMF?

I believe the MMF provides a community of strong like minded managers that help bring value to your knowledge. The sharing of educational information to help develop my business has massively helped expand my business. A generous amount of Industry talks and opportunities have been crucial in developing my skillset as a manager.

What did you gain from the Accelerator Programme?

A sense of self worth that I am sitting at the right table.

What music are you currently listening to?

SAULT.

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