Women In CTRL has introduced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving best practices in board governance within the music industry. This initiative, known as the Governance Advisory Council, will convene senior leaders from various sectors to foster discussions and share insights on effective governance frameworks.
This announcement comes on the heels of the recent publication of the biennial Seat At The Table (SATT) report for 2026, which was created in partnership with the BPI. The report highlights a concerning trend: a decline in both gender and intersectional representation on boards of UK music trade associations since monitoring began in 2020. Specifically, the proportion of women on these boards has decreased from a peak of 52% in 2024 to 49% in 2026.
The Governance Advisory Council aims to serve as a structured platform for peer exchange regarding governance processes and constitutional mechanisms. It will also offer valuable resources to the broader industry, including the Boardroom Navigator—a complimentary public tool that provides information on board election timelines, eligibility requirements, and practical guidance for music organizations.
Among the founding members of the Council are notable figures such as Nadia Khan (chair, Women In CTRL), Jackie Davidson MBE (PPL and MPA board member), and Sarah Williams (CEO, IMPEL). Their collective expertise is expected to drive meaningful discussions about governance and representation in the industry.
Nadia Khan emphasized the importance of embedding equity into governance frameworks, stating, “The organisations showing the most consistent trajectories are those that have written equity into their governance frameworks, not just their culture.” This sentiment reflects the findings of the SATT report, which underscores the need for structural changes to ensure lasting progress.
Jackie Davidson MBE highlighted the initiative’s focus on accessibility, noting that many women, particularly women of color, may not be aware of available opportunities. The Council aims to facilitate knowledge sharing and best practices to ensure that boards are truly representative of the industry they serve. As the music sector continues to evolve, initiatives like the Governance Advisory Council are crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion at the highest levels.
