Former Channel 4 diversity lead and founder of Gritty Talent Mel Rodrigues has been appointed chief executive of Creative Access.

She takes over the role from outgoing chief Bibi Hilton, who is leaving the social enterprise to return to the comms sector. Rodrigues will report into Creative Access founder and executive chair Josie Dobrin and will work closely with the recently promoted Becky Smith who serves as chief culture and operating officer.

Rodrigues was at C4 from 2021 to 2022 and responsible for delivering its Black to front legacy project as well as revising commissioning diversity guidelines. She is also known for setting up Gritty Talent in 2019 – a Bristol based media-tech company connecting diverse creative talent with decision makers in the industry.

She has also been a producer of the BBC Digital Cities initiative across the UK.

Creative Access aims to provides career-long access, opportunities, support and training for people from under-represented groups to make the creative industries reflect society.

Dobrin said that Rodrigues has “deep expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion; in developing and supporting talent from historically under-represented groups and leadership roles in both commercial and not for profit environments”.

She added that Rodrigues originally being from the West Midlands and having been based in Bristol for many years “critically brings a non-London-centric perspective that will be invaluable as we focus on increasing our reach, impact and partnerships across the UK.”

Rodrigues said that she is a “long-time fan of the important and in-depth work that Creative Access does to support creative talent and employers across the UK”. 

“I’m looking forward to bringing my experience, perspective and leadership to the Creative Access team, and to amplifying the mission to support people from all backgrounds to access exciting careers and thrive,” she added. 

It is understood that Gritty Talent will continue to run business as usual, with Rodrigues taking up a non-executive director role on the board from September onwards. A replacement will be appointed for Rodrgiues in due course.

This article first appeared on our sister site, Broadcast.