Joanne Whitty

As Co Founder of IMWT Management, I oversee strategic direction, operational delivery, and creative development of collaborative artist management and development agency. I lead on building professional frameworks that support artists through management, mentorship, and long term career planning. My role includes developing partnerships across music and cultural industries, guiding emerging talent, and ensuring our work aligns with our core values of integrity, innovation, and empowerment. I help create inclusive, supportive environment where artists can grow, thrive, and shape sustainable futures within the industry.

Deliver funding recommendations based on comprehensive project proposal assessments, highlighting artistic merit and innovation.
Identify promising projects aligned with PRS Foundation's mission of championing diversity and inclusivity in the creative sector.
Enhance selection process by providing constructive feedback that fosters applicant growth and development.

In my role at Visual Architects, I was brought in to strengthen the internal workings of the company by implementing clear structures, processes, and policies that supported sustainable growth and improved day to day operations. I focused on building a solid organisational framework, introducing effective CRM and HR systems, and overseeing all HR functions including recruitment, staff development, and performance management. I wrote and introduced a comprehensive employee handbook, established monthly targets for teams, and implemented structured training to support staff development and increase accountability.

I worked closely with both CEOs to align people practices with organisational goals, streamline internal communication, and provide guidance to managers across the business. My work centred on operational efficiency, team cohesion, and safe, compliant working practices that improved staff experience and strengthened overall stability. This focus on structure, people, and strong internal processes is a core part of how I lead and what I bring to any organisation.

I was responsible for the overall day-to-day operations of the business, where I cultivated and maintained strong industry relationships and customer partnerships to capitalize on opportunities and maximize success. I led organizational development changes, enabling the company to better respond and adapt to industry and market shifts. My responsibilities included hiring, training, evaluating, and retaining a high-performing, diverse team that embodied the organizational culture. I held operational oversight and budgetary governance for all projects, working closely with the Managing Director and senior management team to design, implement, and oversee key business strategies and initiatives. Additionally, I collaborated with senior leaders and their teams within the music industry to scale and drive international growth while monitoring outcome measures, program outcomes, and performance improvement.

As an HR professional, I screened, interviewed, and hired candidates to facilitate smooth recruitment procedures. I organized employee appraisal reviews to discuss performance with managers and assess compensation, providing expert legal advice on disciplinary and grievance issues to support management. I compiled and updated employee files in both electronic and paper formats to maintain accurate records, while also offering support to employees with various HR-related issues and liaising with department heads to find resolutions.

Additionally, I designed and updated training manuals, materials, and presentations to align with the organization’s objectives. I managed conflict resolutions to help teams foster relationships and improve their collaborative capabilities, organized orientations, events, and activities to fulfill organizational goals, drafted termination paperwork and conducted exit interviews to comply with release procedures.

I oversaw and managed all business operations, conference initiatives, and training projects, guiding them from curation to evaluation. This included the execution of various key programs such as the RIP IT UP Programme and the Launch Training, as well as the Ostereo Launch. I played a pivotal role in fostering connections through the Innovative Network of European Festivals and organized Music Careers Days across six city regions, providing valuable insights and opportunities for aspiring professionals. Additionally, I coordinated significant events like the Liverpool Apprentice Graduations and the David Bowie Fan Convention, which took place in both Liverpool and New York, enhancing the cultural landscape and industry engagement.

I spearheaded the New Music Conference Off The Record in partnership with From the Fields in Manchester. This involved overseeing the entire process from initial planning and curation to final evaluation. I developed a comprehensive strategy to identify and engage emerging artists and industry professionals, ensuring the conference provided valuable insights and networking opportunities. I collaborated with a diverse range of stakeholders, including artists, panelists, and sponsors, to create a dynamic and impactful program. My efforts were focused on fostering a supportive environment for new talent while promoting innovative discussions within the music industry. The successful execution of the conference not only strengthened industry connections but also contributed to the overall growth and visibility of emerging music professionals.

As Executive PA to three Regional Managers at Carphone Warehouse, I provided high-level administrative support to ensure the efficient operation of their offices. My responsibilities included managing complex schedules, coordinating meetings, and facilitating effective communication between the managers and their teams. I prepared detailed reports and presentations, handled correspondence, and maintained accurate records. Additionally, I organized travel arrangements and logistics for regional events, contributing to the seamless execution of business operations. My proactive approach and exceptional organizational skills enabled me to effectively support the management team and enhance overall productivity

Assisted selection panel for northern music awards with charity Nordoff & Robbins.

Supported informed voting on organisational direction by providing insights on key issues.

Utilised industry knowledge to aid growth in niche markets.

Provided counsel during crucial negotiations, leading to favourable agreements.

Collaborated on business plans, resulting in successful execution of projects.

The Northern chapter of Shesaid.so formed out of a desire to form a network for women based outside of the UK’s capital to cater for the developing industry in the North. #SSSNorthernUK aims to offer regular mixers, events and learning opportunities including panel content, collaborations and workshops, and to share jobs and mentorship schemes for Northern women.

I oversaw the UK Keychange selection process, assessing applications from artists and innovators. I negotiate the international selection process and collaborate with the Keychange team to develop content, creative labs, and panels. Additionally, I work on logistics for international attendees, ensuring a seamless experience for all participants involved in the program.