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Creative Access appoints new CEO, Mel Rodrigues

Creative Access has appointed ex-Channel 4 Diversity Lead and award-winning business leader and inclusion consultant, Mel Rodrigues, as its new Chief Executive.  

Rodrigues will take over the role in September from outgoing CEO, Bibi Hilton, who is returning to a role in the comms sector. She will report to Creative Access founder and Executive Chair, Josie Dobrin OBE, and work in close partnership with Becky Smith, recently promoted to the new role of Chief Culture & Operating Officer.  

After a 20-year career in the screen and digital sectors, in 2019 Rodrigues set up the highly successful Gritty Talent, a Bristol-based media-tech company, with the mission to connect the best, diverse creative talent with decision-makers in the industry. 

Prior to this, she worked in TV production with a range of network credits and leadership roles, including Creative Diversity Lead at Channel 4 and producer of the BBC Digital Cities initiative across the UK. 

Josie Dobrin OBE, Executive Chair of Creative Access said:

“We are delighted to have Mel join Creative Access as CEO and lead us into the next phase of our mission. With her deep expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion; in developing and supporting talent from historically under-represented groups and leadership roles in both commercial and not for profit environments, Mel brings a wealth of experience to Creative Access. Originally from the West Midlands and having been based in Bristol for many years, Mel also critically brings a non-London-centric perspective that will be invaluable as we focus on increasing our reach, impact and partnerships across the UK.”     

Mel Rodrigues added:

“I’m thrilled and really honoured to be taking up the CEO role at Creative Access. I’m a long-time fan of the important and in-depth work that Creative Access does to support creative talent and employers across the UK. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience, perspective and leadership to the Creative Access team, and to amplifying the mission to support people from all backgrounds to access exciting careers and thrive.”