Future Talent alumnus Ben is the founder of Vital, a strategic marketing and communications consultancy for the creative, cultural and digital sectors. He has helped businesses, charities, entrepreneurs, politicians and universities to develop brand and communicate more effectively. In addition, he works with young musicians at the start of their international careers to develop strategy, engage new audiences and raise capital for bespoke projects. In a previous life, Ben performed extensively as a trumpet player with artists such as Mumford & Sons, Katharine Jenkins and Russell Watson. He holds an MSc in Marketing Strategy from Durham University and a BMus (Hons) from the Royal Northern College of Music.