Jay Ikwuemesi

• Lead the creative direction, content strategy, and client experience for an independent recording and production studio. Delivered a full rebrand and modernised digital identity, increasing visibility across London’s creative communities. Developed new mentorship and podcast initiatives while overseeing engineers, editors, and freelancers to maintain excellence across all studio activity.

Led the full commercial strategy for a state-of-the-art recording facility, delivering a £150K annual turnover. Managed a team of 12, implementing new appraisal systems and internal workflows that strengthened departmental performance and cohesion. Oversaw a complete studio rebrand of the CIC, including website redevelopment, marketing materials and digital strategy significantly elevating the studio’s industry presence.

Introduced and secured partnerships with Sony Music (Robots & Humans), Universal Music (Decca Classics), Isobel Griffiths, Book Your Booth and Ifi Audio. Delivered regular industry events in partnership with Sofar Sounds, increasing live audience engagement and visibility across the creative community. Implemented a new CMS and online booking platform, increasing online sales by 25%.

• Signed and developed artists, expanded the creative roster and coordinated national tours. Managed recording budgets, facilitated collaborations with DJs and producers, and strengthened label partnerships to drive growth.

Head of artist relations and commercial studio bookings, managing team of 8 technicians and frontline operations staff along side Studio Manager. Led the Artist Hub Programme, overseeing the creation of four new production rooms fully specified with modern equipment. Secured a 3-year partnership with The Neighbourhood (Dave) that generated consistent monthly revenue. Built strong relationships with NQ Records and Mola Records, increasing external label engagement.

Contributed to major orchestral sessions including Sam Smith (Gloria), Stormzy (This Is What I Mean) and Marvel/DC projects. Completed UMG management training and conducted R&D in Los Angeles with Def Jam, Westlake and Village Studios.

• Directed day-to-day operations, redesigned booking systems, and developed the Producer Residency Programme to support emerging creators. Partnered with educational organisations to bring young talent into the studio.

• Producer, composer and engineer across film, TV and commercial releases. Credits include BBC “Rap Up” theme, Notting Hill Music, Universal Music production work and a wide catalogue of sync-ready material. Published author on music production and creator of an online production course with 7,000+ students.

Designed and delivered composition and music production teaching across multiple modules.

Delivered studio based teaching in production, arrangement and industry practice; oversaw facility use and student development.

• Prepared lesson plans, ensuring understanding of complex concepts.
• Assisted students in essay writing and report structuring skills, improving overall grades.
• Developed study schedules for effective time management and exam preparation.
• Simplified complex topics using practical examples and analogies in teaching approach.

Led creative outreach programmes for young people, delivering arts education and development pathways.