Creative UK appoints new chief executive

Creative UK, the national membership body for the cultural and creative industries, has appointed Emily Cloke as chief executive, marking a new chapter for the organisation representing the cultural and creative industries.

Emily brings a background spanning diplomacy, law and film production, alongside extensive experience in policy, trade and international partnerships. 

She most recently served as His Majesty’s Consul General in Los Angeles, where she championed the UK’s creative industries internationally, and has held senior roles within the Department for Business and Trade.

Emily, who will take up the role in May 2026, said: “Creative UK is a truly unique organisation: investing in the creative economy while representing the full breadth of the creative industries. 

“I am honoured to be joining as the next chief executive, and look forward to being a champion for its far-reaching membership and network of businesses.

“The Creative Industries is a jewel in the UK’s crown – worth £125 billion to the economy, and underpinned by incredible talent. 

“From advertising to architecture, fashion to film - the sector is a growth driver, which is prime for even more investment on the back of the Industrial Strategy. 

“Creative UK’s convening power, networks and track record all lay a solid foundation for us to keep advocating for the growth of the sector – and I look forward to working with partners, Catherine and the board, and the organisation’s talented team, to continue this important work.”

Creative UK advocates for the sector at national and local government level, invests in creative businesses and delivers business growth support through regional programmes.

Emily’s appointment strengthens the organisation’s leadership as it continues to promote the economic and cultural impact of the UK’s creative industries.

Catherine Mallyon CBE, Creative UK’s chair, added: “I am thrilled that Emily will be leading Creative UK through its next exciting chapter. 

“A strategic and collaborative leader, Emily's expertise across the creative industries, diplomacy, policy, and trade mean she is ideally placed to further our goals of increased investment and support for an ever more diverse, sustainable, and thriving cultural and creative sector.

“I am looking forward to working closely with Emily, and the wider Creative UK leadership and team, to continue delivering profound impact for the whole country’s cultural and creative industries. 

“Together we will work to extend the impact of Creative UK’s first five years – which saw us invest £31 million into creative business, support over 5200 creative SMEs, and represent 1500 members.”

Caroline Norbury OBE, current chief executive of Creative UK, who will step down in March, added: “I am thrilled that Emily has been appointed as the new chief executive of Creative UK.

“Her experience and skills – spanning policy, creative industries and trade – make her an ideal candidate to connect the dots between investment and advocacy.

“I look forward to being a champion for her as she steps into the role of champion for the sector, supported by a fantastic team and strong network.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →