Sunderland Music City CEO joins global board

Sunderland Music City chief executive Michelle Daurat has been appointed to the board of the Music Cities Network, strengthening the city’s role in shaping international music policy and urban development.

Michelle joins the board just weeks after Sunderland hosted the Music Cities Network Summer Summit, becoming the only UK city to welcome the global event.

Her appointment comes 18 months after Sunderland joined the international organisation, which brings together cities committed to developing thriving music ecosystems through collaboration, research and policy development.

As a board member, Michelle will help guide the strategic direction of the network, working alongside representatives from music cities across Europe and Australia to champion music as a driver of economic growth, cultural development and community wellbeing.

Michelle said: “It is a tremendous honour to join the board of the Music Cities Network at such an exciting time for both the organisation and Sunderland.

“Music has the power to transform places, create opportunity and bring communities together. 

“This appointment is recognition of the incredible work taking place across Sunderland’s music ecosystem by artists, venues and promoters to educators, businesses and community organisations.”

Since joining the Music Cities Network, Sunderland has launched its Music Strategy, established a dedicated Music Office, completed its Year of Music celebrations and hosted the 2026 Summer Summit, welcoming delegates from around the world.

Michelle’s appointment further strengthens Sunderland’s international profile and reflects the city's continued commitment to using music to support regeneration, talent development and cultural collaboration.

Paula Simó, vice chair, Music Cities Network Board, added: “It is a genuine pleasure to welcome Michelle Daurat to the Music Cities Network board. 

“Sunderland has become one of our most compelling case studies of music-led regeneration, and Michelle’s vision in building Sunderland Music City, backed by more than two decades of outstanding cultural leadership across the North East, brings exactly the kind of practical, place-based knowledge our network thrives on.

“I’m confident her voice will help us build stronger connections between mid-sized cities and push our shared thinking on music-driven urban transformation forward. 

“We are thrilled to have her on board!”

Lena Ingwersen, managing director of the Music Cities Network, added: “Michelle’s election is a wonderful example of how leadership within MCN grows organically from active contribution. 

“Following Sunderland’s remarkable commitment to the network, I’m delighted to welcome her to the board.

“As MCN continues to grow, we're strengthening the board to reflect the diversity, experience and perspectives of our members as we shape the network’s next chapter together.”

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