Adam Buss - the creative consultant with a comedic twist.

Gather round for a tale brimming with creativity, passion, and a splash of humour! Meet Adam Buss, a freelance cultural and creative Industries consultant who's been rocking the arts and culture scene for over two decades.
With an enviable mix of confidence, creativity, and a knack for leadership, Adam's your go-to guy for transforming cultural landscapes in the UK and beyond. Whether it's diversifying income streams, managing venues, or leading artistic projects, Adam's got the magic touch. And did we mention he’s a former stand-up comedian?
Adam and Mark had great fun creating his fantasy cultural year with anecdotes, surprises, laughs and conversational detours. A great way to get to know Adam better.
Once upon a time, in a land known as Derby, Adam embarked on his journey in the arts and creative industries. After dazzling audiences as a stand-up comedian from 1999 to 2003, where he even bagged the title of Derby’s best comedian, Adam’s flair for communication took him to the University of Derby. Here, he reigned supreme as a communications leader, crafting award-winning student newspapers and managing the university's radio station.
Post-graduation, he became the Head of Media at Making Waves Communications in London, where he managed PR campaigns for top brands like Sony Playstation and Air France. His stint as a Press Officer at Derby Playhouse followed, establishing a national media profile for the theatre.
2006 marked the beginning of an epic 17-year journey with Derby QUAD. Starting as the Director of Audience Engagement, Adam’s strategic flair soon saw him ascending to the role of Chief Executive. Under his leadership, QUAD became a beacon of art and film, not just locally but on national and international stages. His knack for developing partnerships and managing change ensured QUAD thrived, even during challenging times.
Adam’s creative prowess didn’t stop at QUAD. He co-directed the Derby Film Festival, bringing luminaries like Brian Blessed and Terry Jones to Derby. As the Marketing Director for the FORMAT International Photography Festival, Adam showcased contemporary photography to the world. And as Chair at 1623 Theatre, he championed innovative Shakespearean performances in unique settings.
Adam's crowning achievement came as the Bid Director for Derby's bid for UK City of Culture 2025. Although Derby didn't win, it was a finalist, with stakeholders lauding Adam's infectious passion for the city. Working closely with Derby City Council, he laid the groundwork for long-term growth and sustainability in Derby's arts sector.
Today, Adam Buss is a sought-after freelance consultant, lending his expertise to projects far and wide. From crafting multi-million-pound bids to strategic development for theatres and universities, Adam’s influence reached far and wide. He's also an empathetic and EDI-driven leader, ensuring equality, diversity, and inclusivity are at the heart of all his endeavours.
Away from consulting, Adam’s versatile talents shine through as an experienced host, MC, and voiceover artist. Whether it's interviewing stars like Sir John Hurt or hosting charity auctions and award ceremonies, Adam's mix of humour and empathy help to make every event memorable.
At the core of Adam’s philosophy is a genuine care for the people he works with and the communities he serves. His approach is simple yet powerful: passion, humility, and humour. By fostering equal partnerships and focusing on positive outcomes, Adam ensures every project he touches gets his Midas touch.
So, there you have it, a whirlwind tour of Adam Buss’s career. From the stages of stand-up comedy to the helm of cultural institutions, Adam’s journey is a story of passion and creativity. Ready to make your cultural project a roaring success? Adam Buss is just an email away!
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Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief of Stuff
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