Music Venue Trust Appoints Four New Trustees

16 July 2025 - Press release

Sammy Andrews, Richard Perry, Helen McGee & Adrian Norman Join Board

  

Music Venue Trust (MVT), the charity which represents over 800 UK grassroots music venues (GMVs), has announced the addition of four new members to its Board of Trustees. Bringing a diverse range of skills and experience to their new roles these new appointees will join the organisation’s existing trustees to help oversee and guide the remit and mission of its executive team. 

 

The following individuals have joined MVT's Board of Trustees:

• Adrian Norman - Founder and CEO of Ocean Music who joined MVT as Treasurer in 2024. 
• Helen McGee - Head of Venues, Ghostwriter Consultancy & Events with a track record in managing events and venues, including over 22 years with Academy Music Group.
• Richard Perry – recently retired as a partner in an international law firm.
• Sammy Andrews - CEO & Founder, Deviate Digital

 

They join existing trustees Bonita McKinney, Phyllis Belezos, Scott Taylforth, Chris Prosser, Simon Hilton, Sarah Thirtle, Jason Dormon, and Jeremy Pritchard.

Sammy Andrews said of her appointment, “I started my career in this industry in the grassroots sector as a promoter, and now work with everyone from global, stadium-filling artists to emerging acts finding their feet. I’ve seen first-hand just how vital this ecosystem is to the UK music business, and how tough things are for venues across the country. It means a lot to me to be joining the MVT board, especially at such a critical time, and to play a part in supporting a sector I care so deeply about.

Adrian Norman added, “I am passionate about music and the power of community. I love what MVT are doing, so I’m proud to be able to help them.”

Helen McGee said, “I have been a supporter of MVT from the outset. What MVT has achieved so far in getting grassroots music venues recognised as the vital lifeblood of the music industry that they are is extraordinary. But there is a long way to go to protect them and keep them central to the communities they support. I’m excited to have been offered an opportunity to be a part of this, and to contribute in whatever way I can.”

Richard Perry added,” I am delighted to be able to get involved in MVT’s work as a trustee. As a music lover, the trust’s goal of securing the long-term future of grassroots music venues across the UK is something I really believe in. And it’s a very exciting time to be joining the board.”

Phyllis Belezos and Chris Prosser, Co-Chairs of the Board of Trustees said, “We are constantly reviewing the needs of MVT and felt that bringing in more experience and expertise would strengthen the support and resource we are able to offer the executive team at such an important time for the organisation. In Sammy, Richard, Helen and Adrian we have appointed four highly regarded and experienced music industry professionals who will add fresh voices, ideas and perspectives to the board.”