Co-founder of Cardiff’s Sŵn Festival John Rostron has been announced as the new CEO of the UK’s Association Of Independent Festivals. He will take over later this month from Paul Reed, who announced his plans to step down earlier this year.
“It’s a great honour to take on this role at a time when AIF feels more important than ever”, says Rostron. “My thanks to outgoing CEO Paul Reed for all he has done for the organisation in raising its profile, value and relevance”.
“Festivals are facing numerous challenges as they grapple with pricing alongside growing costs across the supply chain, all while music fans themselves face a cost-of-living crisis”, he goes on. “Add to that a vital renewed focus on climate action, audience welfare and diversity, equity and inclusion, and there are plenty of ways that AIF can and will make a meaningful difference for its members”.
AIF Chair Matthew Phillip adds: “It’s a pleasure to welcome John to AIF. He’s a tremendously experienced executive, having fulfilled a range of high-level positions at many respected organisations, and with a track record of advocacy and championing independent music businesses. Paul Reed has done an exceptional job in growing AIF both in membership and influence, and I’m confident that John will help continue that trajectory, as well as taking AIF in new directions”.
Rostron will take up his new post on 18 Nov. His appointment was announced at the AIF AGM yesterday, at which four new members of the organisation’s board of directors were also announced. They are Eskimo Dance CEO Steven Campbell, Vision Nine Festivals and Marketing Director Suze Bayliss, Zenfest Director Stefan Poelman, and MD of New Bohemia Music Joe Barnett.