Can you tell us a little about yourself and your business? 

Fiona Cross Management was founded in 2017, shortly after the birth of my eldest daughter. I realised very quickly that the workplace I was in simply couldn’t offer the flexibility I needed as a new parent – so I took a deep breath, left, and set up on my own. It was the scariest, but without question the best, professional decision I’ve made.

I come from a French–Scottish family, and grew up watching my parents run their own business in the education sector in Northern France. Their resilience and independence were a huge inspiration. I always knew I wanted to work in the film industry; the creative world was the only one that ever truly interested me. I left France at 17 to study film at Roehampton University, and that’s where my journey into the British film and television industry began. I’ve never looked back – though I do miss my family at times!

Fiona Cross Management is, at its heart, an actors’ agency – very similar to an employment agency, but specifically for performers. We work closely with casting directors and production teams to connect the right actors to the right opportunities. It’s fast-paced, unpredictable, and no two days look the same. Over the years, we’ve built a carefully curated client list, and we’re incredibly proud of everything our actors have achieved. Although we’re mainly UK-based, we also represent performers from Italy, France, Spain, the Philippines and Malaysia.

What do you enjoy most about running your business? 

Being my own boss is a privilege I never take for granted. As a parent, life regularly involves last-minute childcare changes, school plays, sick days and unexpected juggle moments – and not having to ask anyone’s permission to prioritise my children is priceless.

I’ve also met some wonderful people along the way, including brilliant coaches. One once told me, “There’s no such thing as work–life balance; it’s just one big balance,” and that really stuck with me. My work is part of my life, and my life is part of my work – and surrounding myself with like-minded, family-centred people has been a huge joy.

There’s also nothing quite like calling an actor to tell them they’ve booked a dream role. Our business is built around other people’s successes, and the adrenaline of sharing good news never gets old. Of course, it’s not without its challenges… but the highs are truly special.

What challenges have you faced along the way? 

Starting a business in 2017 means that my early years were shaped by Covid, lockdown, Brexit, and more recently the US writers’ and actors’ strikes – all of which had a massive impact on our industry. Add to that the recession, the loss of arts funding, and a growing mental health crisis among creatives, and then sprinkle on becoming a parent for the first time… plus the ever-present imposter syndrome… It has been quite the ride!

But we’re still here, still standing, and now heading towards our 10-year anniversary. I’m genuinely proud of what we’ve achieved.

What is your advice to other SMEs? 

Talk to each other. Build connections with other small business owners who share your values and your vision. Support one another wherever you can. Hold on tightly to your ethics, stay clear on your goals, and you’ll come out stronger on the other side.

What’s coming up in 2026 for Fiona Cross Management?

I’m hopeful that 2026 brings a resurgence in UK film and TV production, with more projects commissioned and better news for the arts generally.

For our agency, the focus remains the same: nurturing the actors we represent, guiding them as their careers grow, and preparing for our 10th anniversary in early 2027 – which feels like a huge milestone.

What do you like about being a member of the Chamber? 

I only joined recently, but I’m very much looking forward to building a sense of community and support. I think that’s something everyone needs, both personally and professionally. I’ve already attended a business breakfast and met some lovely local business owners, and I’m excited to get more involved.