Nick Poole
Ukie
Nick Poole is CEO of Ukie, the trade body for the UK’s video games and interactive entertainment industry. He is a champion of the social, educational and wider economic and industrial impact of the industry, with a particular focus on partnerships, policy and public engagement.
Prior to joining Ukie, Nick was CEO of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), where he was responsible for working with the Board of Trustees to set strategic direction, develop operational plans, support member engagement and develop a positive working culture.
Nick was Chair of Wikimedia UK, the UK chapter of the international Wikipedia movement between 2021 and 2022.
Nick’s previous leadership roles included as CEO of the Collections Trust (based at the Natural History Museum) and National Policy Adviser for the Museums, Libraries and Archives Council (MLA) as well as roles in marketing, PR and communications. He was previously Chair of the International Council of Museums UK and of the Europeana Network, a cross-industry body representing the interests of publishers, broadcasters and cultural institutions in Europe.
Nick lives in London with his family and enjoys walking, kayaking and building automata.
Nick Poole is speaking at the following session/s
Why Cultural Recognition is Crucial to the Future of the Games Industry
This session will explore why the ongoing effort to ensure games are recognised and celebrated as a true art from, alongside the best of the other screen and creative industries, is not just a nice-to-have, but is critical in the future success of the industry.
It will look at how creating a better understanding and appreciation of our sector and creative work will foster efforts to enact favourable policy, to get a seat at some of the most influential tables and to unlock greater public incentives. By widening the acceptance of our industry, we will increase and unlock markets of untapped potential, diversify player spend and create opportunities for new types of games to emerge.
Breaking down lingering misconceptions and stereotypes will vastly improve media coverage and cultural analysis of our art form, levelling the playing field of understanding and ensuring everyone from parents to politicians gives games their rightful fair consideration. And by celebrating and recognising best talents and diverse people of our industry, we can show that the games industry really is for everyone, ensuring the brightest stars of the future are inspired to join our industry, whatever their background.
Session Takeaway
- Understand the political, economic and market impacts of the wider cultural recognition of games
- Discuss the barriers and opportunities to funding that cultural recognition unlocks
- Reconsider the boundaries of games audiences or content and where untapped markets might be found
- A rising tide lifts all boats!
Session speakers
