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ILMC and IQ Magazine Transition to Employee Ownership

June
5

The organisations behind the International Live Music Conference (ILMC) and IQ Magazine have transitioned to employee ownership, according to an announcement from Managing Director Greg Parmley.

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The move took effect in April 2026 through the establishment of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), a structure commonly used in the UK to transfer company ownership to employees.

Parmley said the decision followed a lengthy period of consideration and was designed to secure the long-term independence of both ILMC and IQ Magazine while aligning the interests of the company and its employees.

Founded in 1989 by Martin Hopewell, ILMC has grown into one of the live entertainment industry`s leading annual conferences, bringing together professionals from across the global concert, festival, venue, agency and touring sectors. The conference is approaching its 40th edition, which will take place in 2028.

In his announcement, Parmley highlighted the importance of preserving the independent nature of both organisations. He noted that ILMC has sought to serve the interests of all sectors of the live music business, while IQ Magazine has aimed to provide impartial industry coverage and act as a platform for the live entertainment sector.

As part of the transition, Parmley will remain in his role as Managing Director. The company has also appointed three new directors: Chris Prosser as Chief Revenue Officer, Jonathan Lomax as Chief Operating Officer, and Ben Delger as Director of Digital Operations.

The new directors will join a senior leadership team that also includes James Drury, Lou Percival and Philip Millard.

Parmley described the transition as a significant milestone that will help ensure the long-term independence of the organisation while enabling employees to share in its future success.

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