I feel deeply fortunate to have spent the last 27 years building a career across music, entertainment, live events and education.

Creativity and business have always fuelled one another for me. Whether I’ve been onstage as a performer, behind the scenes building music brands and audiences, or these days seated on the boardroom table, the work I do has always bridged culture, creativity, community and commerce.

There’s a common misconception that creative people aren’t good at business, or that commercially minded people somehow lack creativity. I’ve never believed the two should be separated.

In fact, I believe the opposite.

Artists need sustainable businesses because art matters.

Creative people need to make money because their work deserves to thrive.

Audiences and communities are changed by live experiences.

Helping creative people and organisations build sustainable careers isn’t separate from the art it protects the art.

That philosophy sits at the heart of my work. I partner with artists, creative businesses and performing arts organisations to bring a fresh perspective to their positioning, branding, messaging, marketing, audience development, commercial strategy and revenue, helping brilliant creative ideas become sustainable, visible and commercially viable.

Through Kerri Layton Consulting and Dixiebird Records, my work spans creative direction, music, and executive strategy.

I’m a Board Director and Trustee of Deal Music & Arts Festival, Founder of Learn Drama Online, and a Professional Member of The Ivors Academy, Arts and Culture Network, and an ICF-accredited business coach.

When I'm not working, you'll find me either on a muddy adventure with my beloved spaniels, Memphis and Daniel, making noise as Kezza Inna Jungle, or off on a road trip with my partner in our renovated 1970s vintage caravan, practicing what I preach that you can build your career, grow your business, protect your creativity and enjoy your life.