Ruth Hopkins is an accomplished arts consultant and director, known for her unique blend of artistic talent, commercial acumen, and strategic thinking. With a flair for innovation in community engagement, Ruth has made significant contributions to the music and heritage sectors both nationally and internationally.

As the founding director of K’antu Ensemble, Ruth has provided strategic leadership since 2011, transforming the group from a student ensemble at Birmingham Conservatoire into an internationally recognized, award-winning ensemble. Under her guidance, K’antu Ensemble has performed across the UK, Germany, Canada, Egypt, Romania, and Hungary, with their work being broadcast on TV and radio. Ruth’s consultancy expertise extends to managing international tours, contract negotiations, and logistics, ensuring the successful execution of performances across Europe and the Middle East.

Ruth enjoys collaborating with a variety of prestigious organizations, including The Commonwealth Games 2022, the National Trust, British Council, Caudwell Children, CHILD Foundation (Bangladesh), Craiova International Shakespeare Festival (Romania), and Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Egypt). Her work with these organizations showcases her ability to create and implement strategic projects that resonate on a global scale.

Ruth’s consultancy work includes securing substantial funding from major bodies such as Arts Council England, Heritage Lottery Fund, and the British Council, overseeing projects with budgets up to £200k. Her leadership in developing a special needs and disability (SEND) music and heritage festival has been particularly notable, earning her recognition as a social entrepreneur and the 2020 UK Creative Community Fellowship in association with the University of Pennsylvania.

Before retraining as a musician, Ruth worked as a headhunter for FTSE100 companies in London, advising on significant appointments in the FMCG, retail, and finance sectors. This background informs her consultancy work, where she has provided strategic guidance to the Boards of Trustees at Birmingham Contemporary Music Group and the Caine Prize for African Writing.

From 2020 to 2022, Ruth held a scholarship at Oxford University's Saïd Business School, where she earned an MBA, further enhancing her skills in leadership, strategy, innovation, and governance. Her consultancy practice is underpinned by this extensive academic and professional experience, positioning her as a dynamic and influential figure in the arts and cultural sectors.