16.07.2026:UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl has welcomed the appointment of Ivors Academy CEO and UK Music Director Roberto Neri to the House of Lords.
Roberto was among those made a Labour life peer by Sir Keir Starmer shortly before he stands down as Prime Minister.
Tom Kiehl said:“Roberto has been a tireless campaigner for songwriters and composers. In his role as CEO of the Ivors Academy, he has ensured all of the organisation’s activities and campaigning work have gone from strength to strength. And, as a UK Music director Roberto continues to fight for the best interests of his members and the wider music community.
“I know he will continue that work on behalf of our sector as a powerful and influential voice in the House of Lords, where his strong commercial acumen and experience of the creative process will be a huge asset.”
Roberto said: “It is an enormous honour to be appointed to the House Of Lords. Everything I have worked towards throughout my career has been driven by a belief that music creators deserve to be valued, fairly rewarded and given every opportunity to succeed.
“It is a privilege to lead The Ivors Academy and to work alongside extraordinary songwriters, composers and colleagues every day. I look forward to continuing to champion music creators and the wider creative industries, ensuring they remain at the heart of our cultural life and future prosperity.”
UK Music also welcomed the award of life peerages to broadcaster and charity campaigner June Sarpong OBE and former CEO and artistic director of the Roundhouse Marcus Davey CBE.
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