IAF APPOINTS LIVERYMAN KEVIN FITZGERALD AS NEW SECRETARY GENERAL
21 FEBRUARY 2025
The International Authors Forum (IAF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Kevin Fitzgerald CMG as its new Secretary General. Kevin brings extensive experience in intellectual property, international relations, and governance to the role, having held important leadership positions in both the public and private sectors. His appointment represents a major milestone for IAF and his strategic vision will be essential in driving the organization’s efforts to support authors and enhance the global recognition of their rights.
Kevin Fitzgerald joins from the United Nations World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Since 2015, he has held various positions including Cabinet Director, Director of the Copyright Infrastructure Division (ad interim) and Director of Digital Outreach. Prior to this, he was the Chief Executive of the UK’s Copyright Licensing Agency (CLA) from 2007 to 2014, and Chair of the European Union Group for the International Federation of Reproduction Rights Organisations (IFRRO) from 2008 to 2015.
With his deep expertise in international law and digital innovation, Kevin’s experience will be crucial in enhancing IAF’s international presence. His established connections within WIPO and his comprehensive understanding of global intellectual property issues will support the IAF’s ability to engage thoughtfully and collaboratively with international stakeholders.
Kevin said: ‘Authors are an essential thread in the fabric of society. There is no more pivotal time than the present to ensure that their voices continue to be heard. It is an honour for me to play a role in this mission’.
His distinguished career also includes roles at the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office, East of England Tourist Board, and Chair of the region’s Awards for Excellence, while also having great experience within publishing including at Rough Guides and overseeing the Better World campaign for the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID).
In addition to his professional achievements, Kevin actively supports social causes, including investing in the development of a village in India and as a Patron of Prisoners Abroad. His dedication to both global intellectual property and humanitarian efforts has earned him numerous recognitions, including his appointment as Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George (CMG) in 2013 for his services to British economic interests and the welfare of British nationals in prison abroad.
Barbara Hayes, CEO of the Authors Licensing and Collective Society (ALCS) and Treasurer of the IAF stated: ‘We are pleased to welcome Kevin Fitzgerald as the new Secretary General of the International Authors Forum. Considering the growing challenges faced by authors such as the effects of AI on the creative industries, Kevin’s expertise will play a crucial role in enhancing the IAF’s global advocacy for authors’ rights and ensuring their protection in this evolving environment’.
Geneva, 1st February 2025.