Robert Abel

Robert Abel is the Head of Commercial Audio Strategy at Guardian News & Media, based in Greater London, England, United Kingdom.1 He is a media and content executive with 15 years of experience in building substantial business growth through world-class audio.1

Abel has a strong background in the audio industry, having previously served as Managing Partner at Somethin' Else from 2015 to 2019.1 During his tenure there, he helped consolidate the company as the European market leader in radio and audio, working with prestigious clients such as Spotify, Audible, BBC, The Economist, and Penguin Random House.1

Prior to his role as Managing Partner, Abel was the Head of Radio at Somethin' Else from 2011 to 2015.1 Under his leadership, the Radio department grew to become Europe's largest independent audio production unit.1 He was responsible for planning, delivering, and managing a multi-million pound yearly budget and oversaw editorial decisions for 45 creatives across 25 daily and weekly programmes.1

Throughout his career, Abel has been involved in creating and producing successful audio content. He devised and sold the hit food panel show "The Kitchen Cabinet," presented by Jay Rayner, which became a prime-time fixture on the BBC.1 He has also worked on projects such as Kermode and Mayo's Film Review podcast and The Economist Audio Edition.1

Abel's expertise lies in advising organizations on commercial and editorial opportunities in podcasting and on-demand audio, particularly for non-traditional audio producers such as newspapers, talent agencies, television production companies, record companies, and book publishers.1