Leaders in the creative sector gather to debate industry’s future

Film-makers, animators, digital marketers and graphic designers were among the guests who gathered at Yurt Lush on Creative Common for a lively panel discussion led by some of the most recognised names in the industry, followed by networking.

The event, which was organised by the Bristol office of accountancy and investment management group, Smith & Williamson, featured a panel discussion exploring emerging opportunities for the sector.

Steve Ashworth, Associate Director at Smith & Williamson, which has a dedicated media services team in Bristol, comments: “In my view, there is an appetite among investors looking to get involved with ambitious media and creative businesses with growth potential.

“Any steps the sector takes to promote the quality of its work and the talent of its people, will be well received and serve to strengthen its position.”

The panel comprised of David Sproxton, Executive Chairman at Aardman Animations, Steve Ashworth, Associate Director at Smith & Williamson, Chris Thurling, digital media specialist and founder of 3Sixty.

Fraser Bradshaw, CEO of Bristol Media and creative marketing agency saintnicks, Paul Appleby, Chair of Bristol Media and the Creative Sector Group of the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Laura Marshall, Managing Director at Icon Films were also present.