TrueRights strengthens board with two strategic appointments

February 4, 2025
Hester Bates

TrueRights is delighted to announce the appointment of Lewis Silkin lawyers Cliff Fluet and Phil Hughes to its board, further solidifying its position as the leading AI licensing company for rightsholders. With their extensive experience in digital media, entertainment law, and the creator economy, their addition marks a significant step forward in TrueRights’ mission to empower Talent and protect their digital rights in an evolving technological landscape.

Cliff Fluet: A pioneer in digital media and innovation

Cliff Fluet brings over 25 years of legal and advisory expertise to TrueRights, specialising in digital media, brand entertainment, technology, and innovation. As a Partner at Lewis Silkin LLP, he leads the firm’s Media & Entertainment practice and sits on the Management Board responsible for innovation. Recognised as an industry leader and ranked in the Legal 500 Hall of Fame, Cliff’s legal acumen will be invaluable in navigating the complex legal and regulatory challenges surrounding AI, intellectual property, and content monetisation.

Beyond his legal practice, Cliff is the founder and Managing Director of Eleven Advisory, where he helps media companies across music, sport, film, and entertainment harness emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and immersive media. His deep understanding of technological disruption and commercial strategy will support TrueRights in scaling its innovative licensing solutions and advocating for Talent in the digital space.

Cliff is also dedicated to the creative community, serving as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees for Help Musicians and Chair of Music Minds Matter, which focuses on the well-being of the music industry. His passion for protecting creative talent aligns seamlessly with TrueRights’ mission to ensure fair compensation and rights management in the digital age.

Phil Hughes: A leading authority in the creator economy

Phil Hughes joins TrueRights with a wealth of experience in digital talent management, rights monetisation, and deal structuring. Formerly the legal, operational, and commercial lead at Europe’s leading digital talent management firm, Phil has played a key role in shaping the digital creator revolution. Now a Partner at Lewis Silkin, he works within the Digital, Creative and Commerce group, supporting clients across talent, brands, AI, media, agencies and production companies.

Phil’s expertise in content monetisation, image and trademark exploitation, licensing and AI regulation will be instrumental in helping TrueRights develop robust frameworks for protecting Talent in the AI-driven economy. Additionally, as the CEO and Founder of the Digital Creator Association, he continues to advocate for digital Talent and help shape the industry’s future. His deep knowledge of creator rights and emerging business models makes him a critical addition to the TrueRights board.

Driving TrueRights forward

In a joint statement on the partnership, Cliff and Phil said: "With many years of experience in IP and digital rights, we believe nothing will impact the industry more than the rise of AI. As technology advances, the need for clear legal protections and a well established licensing regime has never been more critical. TrueRights is leading the way in ensuring that Talent and other rights holders retain control over their digital likeness and content. By establishing a platform that gives users more clarity over their rights alongside ethical frameworks for AI content creation, TrueRights is not only addressing today’s challenges but shaping the future of AI-driven media and intellectual property."

As TrueRights continues to pioneer AI-driven licensing solutions, the strategic appointments of Cliff Fluet and Phil Hughes bring an unparalleled combination of legal, commercial, and technological expertise. Their leadership will help TrueRights navigate the evolving regulatory landscape, forge new partnerships, and strengthen its commitment to ensuring fair and ethical AI licensing for Talent worldwide.

We are thrilled to welcome Cliff and Phil to the board and look forward to the transformative impact their experience will bring to TrueRights and the wider digital economy.