MPA Board Member
Owner, Maria Forte Music Services Ltd.
What drew you to a board role?
I have had the opportunity of being on a few boards during my career, but the MPA board role is the first member organisation that I have sat on, the others were company boards. I had sat on the MPA board some years previously - but had to withdraw due to family responsibilities and time. That time has now passed. When some vacancies on the board came up, I decided to stand again and give it another shot. I think being part of a member organisation board is also like giving back to an industry (music publishing) that I know and love.
What did you bring to the table?
During my 47 year career in the music industry, having worked in various different elements of it - I have always worked in music publishing. My background is predominantly in what I call the ’nuts and bolts’ of the industry and I felt that I could truly bring something to the table along the lines of the day to day highs and lows being at the coal face a lot of the time. My clients are varied - artists, writers, other publishers, management companies and digital services - so I feel the breadth of my experience brings something of benefit.
What do you wish you had understood earlier?
Probably the formality of it all and how the various different boards fit together. I am terrible at speaking out of turn, my enthusiasm overtakes me and I find waiting to be asked to speak very hard! (I am learning though).
What advice would you give to women considering a board role?
If you feel or think you have something to contribute, never underestimate yourself, your experience or your ability and have the confidence to put yourself forward.
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