AudioUK today announces that Chloe Straw will be passing the baton as Chief Executive Officer, following a highly impactful tenure that has seen the organisation grow in influence, visibility, and support for the UK’s world-leading podcast and audio industry.

Since taking on the role, Chloe has led a period of significant transformation and achievement for AudioUK and the wider podcast and audio industry. Under her leadership, AudioUK has:

• Represented the UK podcast and audio industry nationally and internationally, ensuring a strong voice for creators and businesses alike.
• Worked closely with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to champion the industry’s role in the wider creative economy, launch the Creative Industries Campaign, and secure funding for a major cross-industry research study.
• Launched the Pay What You Can Scheme for the AudioUK’s awards, the APAs – in partnership with Amazon Music – making the awards more accessible and inclusive for all.
• Grown the organisation to its highest ever membership numbers.
• Established the International Podcast Alliance (IPA) as a founding member, alongside France’s PIA, to strengthen global podcasting connections
• Negotiated and agreed new BBC Terms of Trade, setting a vital benchmark for the podcasting and audio industry.
• Advocated for the growth and sustainability of the UK podcast and audio industry, whilst fostering collaboration across the creative industries; including with Acast, Youtube, Multitrack, Content Is Queen, Scotland Audio Network, Radiocentre, The Guardian, Radio Academy, The Podcast Show, Audible, Amazon Music,.
• Secured funding for and relaunched AudioTrain, in partnership with the BBC, as a fully accessible, always-on 360° training platform supporting skills and professional development across the industry.
• Introduced new industry events including Podcast Leaders Lunches, The Power of Podcasting, and Pact x AudioUK: TV x Podcasting; bringing together leaders from across the creative and commercial landscapes.

Speaking on her departure, Chloe Straw said:

“It has been an honour and a joy to lead AudioUK, to witness and be part of the incredible evolution of this industry that I love. All of this has been made possible by my brilliant team, the AudioUK Board, AudioUK members and wider industry partners. I want to thank them all for their camaraderie, expertise and dedication over the time I’ve been with the organisation. The behind the scenes talent that drives the UK podcast and audio industry is wonderful to witness, and I look forward to seeing AudioUK continue to thrive and drive the future of podcasting and audio, both in the UK and globally.”

AudioUK Chair, Bernard P Achampong, added:

“Chloe has been exceptional – a true advocate for the UK’s podcast and audio industry. Her vision, energy and unwavering commitment have significantly strengthened the standing of independent creators within the industry. AudioUK is incredibly grateful for all her accomplishments and wishes her the very best for the future. She’s been an asset to us, and I’m sure she will continue to be wherever she is next.”

Notes: Chloe will remain with AudioUK until the end of 2025, after which she will be moving on to an exciting new role (details of which are currently confidential). The organisation is incredibly grateful for her leadership and dedication, and looks forward to celebrating her contributions over the coming months. Plans to recruit a new CEO will be announced in the near future. In the interim, AudioUK will continue to be led by Chair Bernard Achampong, Vice-Chair Hannah Brankin, and the AudioUK Executive Team.

About AudioUK

AudioUK is the industry body dedicated to advancing the podcast and audio industry by fostering innovation, supporting creators and businesses, and driving commercial and creative growth.

For media enquiries, interviews or further information, please contact:

Katie Banham, Marketing and Events Lead, AudioUK

katie.banham@audiouk.org.uk