Navigating Change: leadership, creativity, and the future of publishing

About the event

This event explored the dynamic evolution of the publishing and creative industries through the lens of Stephen’s extensive experience. It examined how technological advancements, sector strategies, and leadership approaches reshaped creative communities, with particular attention to engagement with the UK Government through bodies such as the Creative Industries Council and regional growth in cities such as Bristol.

The event also addressed ongoing technological developments and their implications for the creative sector, highlighting opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and sustainable leadership in a rapidly changing cultural and economic landscape.

About Stephen

Stephen is Non-Executive Chair of Faber & Faber, one of the world’s leading independent literary publishing houses, where he served as Chief Executive from 2001 to 2021.

Stephen grew up in the Midlands and studied History at Bristol University. His career in publishing began in bookselling, after a mercifully brief period as the drummer in a rock band. He discovered his love of literature in his early twenties and worked at Transworld, 4th Estate, and HarperCollins in commercial and leadership roles before being appointed to run Faber in 2001.

Stephen also works closely with government and sits on the Creative Industries Council, where the UK Government and the Creative and Cultural sectors collaborate to ensure these sectors thrive. He also sat on the Creative Growth Task Force, informing the recent Sector Plan for the Creative Industries.

He is a visiting Professor at City, University of London, chaired the social enterprise Creative Access, ensuring access to all Creative Industries for all, and has recently trained as a business coach, running his own coaching practice.

He remains a drummer in a 90s cover band, The Landline. He is married with two sons and lives in West London. In 2022, he was awarded an OBE for services to publishing.