Julie’s Bicycle CEO Alison Tickell is to step down from the leadership role at the climate action organisation for the music industry after almost 20 years.
Julie’s Bicycle was founded by Tickell in 2007 when a group of music industry friends arrived at a London restaurant called Julie’s to join forces and discuss taking action on the climate crisis.
“For two decades Alison has stewarded JB’s pioneering work at the intersection of culture and climate action in the UK and internationally,” said a statement. “Rooted in the understanding that systemic change needs everyone, and that we lead by being the change, Alison has been instrumental in galvanising the creative sector.”
With long-term partners and colleagues, Julie’s Bicycle has created comprehensive and freely available resources, supported hundreds of companies and networks, and been at the forefront of cultural and climate policy globally.
Tickell will be moving into a part-time role until the end of 2026 focusing on high-level international policy and systems change advocacy, while supporting the leadership transition.
I will always be passionate about this extraordinary collection of people, ideas, and relationships, and I’ll continue to be a bright ally and champion of both JB and our shared mission
Alison Tickell
In addition, Julie’s Bicycle’s chair, Tony Wadsworth, is also taking this opportunity to step down after 13 years.
Managing director Laura Pando has been appointed interim CEO, as the board launches an international recruitment process.
The organisation will host a 20th anniversary event in early 2027.
Founder Alison Tickell said: “Being part of JB has been an honour, a journey alongside so many inspirational friends and colleagues. It’s an exciting time, a moment to thank and celebrate our collective contributions to the creative climate movement, and to everything that we will all bring in the future which restores our connection with our world.
“I will always be passionate about this extraordinary collection of people, ideas, and relationships, and I’ll continue to be a bright ally and champion of both JB and our shared mission. My heartfelt gratitude goes to my brilliant colleagues through the years, dedicated trustees, and our extraordinary network of funders, partners, and artists.”
Abbi Knell, chair of the board, said: “It’s been a privilege to work with Alison for many years, and to see first-hand the care, courage and creativity she has for both the people and projects. We owe immense gratitude to Alison for 20 years of transformational leadership. As JB prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary next year, Alison’s legacy is the very foundation upon which our next 20 years will be built.”
PHOTO: James Allen
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