Charles Bradbrook, Janice Lloyd, Stephen Marks and Steve Wren have been named among Billboard’s 2025 Top Business Managers, recognised for guiding the finances of some of the world’s most successful artists. This marks the third consecutive year Charles, Janice, and Steve have featured on the prestigious list, and the first time for Stephen.

Commenting on the news, Stephen Marks, Partner at SRLV, said: “Charles, Janice, Steve, and I would like to thank our clients, industry peers and colleagues who nominated us this year, along with Billboard for including us. It’s an absolute honour to be included among Billboard’s Top Business Managers, and we are delighted that SRLV has been represented on the list for the third consecutive year. We truly appreciate everyone’s continued support.”

To mark the publication of Billboard’s 2025 Top Business Managers and Stephen’s inclusion in the list, we’ve published the full version of his feature Q&A, below.

 

What specific achievement by your company or firm in the past 12–18 months would you like to highlight?

We are delighted to have expanded our partner numbers by adding three new additions to our group – Adam Stanley and Pembe Ozoran in our creative division, and Kieron Clement-Smith in our private client division.

These partners exhibit our continued commitment to excellence in client service, particularly in navigating complex financial landscapes. Over the past year, we’ve played a key role in supporting high-profile clients through major transitions, including international touring, catalogue sales, and strategic projects – all while maintaining a personalised, hands-on approach to business management.

 

What industry developments are most affecting the income of your clients or your advice to clients?

Artificial Intelligence continues to be a buzz topic; and appropriately so. It is a major concern to artists at all levels who need to protect their rights (vocal and image), whilst the threat of AI-generated music can also hinder emerging artists progression. AI poses a real threat to their creative and financial integrity.

 

What is the most pressing issue now facing business managers as they guide the finances of their clients?

The legislation surrounding international touring is currently one of the most pressing challenges. The volume of documentation and regulatory requirements needed to manage tours smoothly across borders has increased significantly, demanding more time, resources, and strategic planning from business managers.

 

In your view, what is the most significant impact of the 2025 Reconciliation Act – commonly referred to as the One Big Beautiful Bill – which was enacted in July?

The enhancement of the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) relief is the most significant aspect of the One Big Beautiful Bill. QSBS relief has been available for some time but has often been overlooked in favour of passthrough tax arrangements. However, the enhanced QSBS relief provides significant tax advantages, so when new ventures are being discussed, more consideration will be given to a qualifying QSBS qualifying structure. This is particularly relevant for the entertainment industry, where asset value appreciation continues to be robust.

To find out more about Billboard’s 2025 Top Business Managers, please visit their website.

 

ABOUT BILLBOARD

Published weekly by Penske Media Corporation, Billboard magazine (www.billboard.com) is recognised as one of the most reputable sources of music industry news and provides music charts, features, video opinion, reviews, annual listicles, events and styles related to the music and entertainment industry.