Coleen Mensa is an award-winning lawyer, business leader and advocate for greater access and representation across traditionally exclusive industries. She is the head of Legal & Business Affairs at Soundmouse, part of Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI), and serves as Chair of Birmingham Museums Trading Board and a Trustee of Birmingham Museums Trust.

Working at the intersection of law, music, technology and data, Coleen advises on complex commercial transactions and strategic partnerships with broadcasters, media companies, rights organisations and music industry stakeholders across international markets.

Prior to joining Soundmouse, Coleen practiced corporate law at EY, advising on mergers and acquisitions, corporate reorganisations, investments and strategic transactions, with a particular focus on the entertainment and media sectors.

Throughout her career, Coleen has combined legal expertise with commercial acumen and strategic leadership. Central to her work is a commitment to challenging traditional barriers to entry and widening access to industries, institutions and opportunities that have historically been beyond the reach of many.

Her contributions to leadership and inclusion have been recognised by the Financial Times, the Legal 500 and the UK Diversity Legal Awards. Alongside her executive career, she holds several board and advisory positions and is a passionate advocate for creating opportunities for the next generation.

Coleen brings this same philosophy to her work with Birmingham Museums, recognising the vital role cultural institutions play in shaping identity, inspiring curiosity and strengthening communities. She believes that museums should not simply be accessible to everyone but should be spaces in which people from all backgrounds feel represented, welcomed and empowered to participate.