Paul Owens
Paul Owens is a leading international advisor in cultural policy and the creative economy.
Over the past 25 years, he has played a central role in redefining how culture is understood as a catalyst for development, regeneration and place-making around the world. As co-founder of BOP, he is a driving force behind the ethos and strategic approaches that define our global impact.
With deep policy insight, strategic vision and a strong ability to convene influential networks, Paul is a trusted advisor to governments, cities and international organisations. His skill in bringing key stakeholders into meaningful dialogue has helped unlock investment, galvanise political will and secure long-term commitment to transformative cultural programmes.
His advisory work spans a wide range of clients including the Saudi Ministry of Culture, China Association of Trade in Services, European Trade Commission, Inter-American Development Bank and the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.
As founder of the World Cities Culture Forum, a global network now convened through the Mayor of London, Paul has been instrumental in reshaping how cities approach culture and urban policy. He continues to lead global thinking on cultural value, soft power and place-based development as a Creative Fellow of the Policy & Evidence Centre and a Fellow of WRLDCTY, a platform for shaping future-ready cities.
Paul also serves as a Trustee of the Cultural Philanthropy Foundation, advocating for greater philanthropic investment in culture and the arts.
