The UK charity Music Support has recently appointed two seasoned professionals, Kimberley Goddard and Laila Khan, to bolster its mission of supporting mental health within the music industry. Both executives bring extensive experience in fostering relationships and driving impactful events. Over the past year, Music Support has seen a 51% increase in helpline calls and emails, underscoring the growing need for their services. With these new hires, the organization aims to expand its reach and effectiveness.

Enhancing Partnerships and Fundraising Efforts

Kimberley Goddard joins Music Support as the head of fundraising and corporate partnerships. Her role will focus on developing strategic alliances and generating financial support to enhance the charity's impact. With a career spanning 17 years in the music industry, Goddard brings a wealth of experience in building meaningful connections with key stakeholders. Her journey began at a young age, leading her to collaborate with influential figures like Kanya King, founder of the MOBO Awards, which significantly shaped her professional path.

Goddard's commitment to mental health and safety in the music industry aligns perfectly with Music Support's core values. She emphasizes the importance of having robust support systems in place, drawing from personal experiences and her work at ELAM, where she established partnerships with leading organizations across various sectors of the entertainment industry. Most recently, she co-founded Music Guardians, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing safety standards within the music sector. In her new role, Goddard plans to leverage her skills to strengthen Music Support's outreach and efficacy, ensuring that those facing mental health challenges receive the necessary assistance.

Promoting Engagement and Industry Advocacy

Laila Khan has been appointed as the major event fundraising and engagement specialist. Her primary goal is to engage the music community through high-profile events and advocacy efforts. Khan boasts over two decades of experience in the music industry, having worked as a musician, part of a management team, and organizer of significant fundraising events. Her expertise lies in engaging industry insiders to become advocates for mental health initiatives.

Khan's recent role as artist and relationship manager at Nordoff Robbins allowed her to collaborate with top-tier managers, artists, and music companies. She spearheaded artist development programs for the Northern Music Awards and drove industry engagement for the national Get Loud campaign. Additionally, Khan chaired the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Taskforce, further highlighting her dedication to creating a supportive environment within the music industry. In her new position, Khan aims to galvanize and empower the music community to support one another, recognizing the critical importance of mental health resources for industry professionals. Both Goddard and Khan are poised to make substantial contributions to Music Support's mission, ensuring that the organization remains a vital lifeline for those in need.