Charlie set up Southampton Festivals as a not-for profit organisation in 2012 to help the city make more of itself - regeneration through events. “I’m driven by trying to create opportunities for people to flourish, whether they are the many talented artists and performers in this city; young creatives trying to get a career going; or simply people who want to get involved in something or make the most of living here.” His career and background has been in public policy, local government, trade unions and communities - most recently focussed on better lives for older people and managing an EU ageing project.