Karen’s expertise is leading strategy development and programme design. She works with cultural organisations, higher education institutions, government bodies, businesses, and charities across the UK and internationally. She is experienced in leading research, analysis and stakeholder engagement to understand needs and design practical solutions. Karen specialises in interdisciplinary projects and has a particular interest in collaborations beyond the usual boundaries.
Before joining Counterculture Karen led large-scale projects for major institutions. As Programme Director for University College London’s flagship international programme, she enabled new research and education projects across the arts and sciences. In senior roles at the British Council, she developed strategy and partnerships around the world to deliver programmes in design, fashion, film, literature, music, performance, visual arts, and the creative industries. At The Reading Agency she worked with local communities across the UK to deliver national programmes and campaigns and to shape policy.
Previously, she sold publishing rights for Penguin Random House and HarperCollins. She has been a visiting lecturer for Kingston University and is a trustee for the Lisa Ullmann Travelling Scholarship Fund.