UK - Illumination specialists LED Creative has welcomed Tim Rees to the role of projects assistant as part of the small but growing team at their Hertfordshire base. Having spent over 10 years delivering a broad range of production solutions, with a particular focus on lighting, Tim’s experience encompasses client liaison, budgeting and supplier management and is augmented by in-depth working knowledge of production equipment and IT systems. Speaking about the new appointment, LED Creative’s Adam Howard says: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Tim to our team. We pride ourselves on being able to offer the very highest levels of support to our clients - Tim’s technical understanding and strong project management skills are a fantastic addition to the LED Creative service.” Commenting on his new role, Tim adds: “The opportunity to join such a dyna
France - Peerless-AV has announced the addition of Cédric Leoture to the position of channel account manager – France. Based near Paris, Cédric is responsible for stimulating existing channel relationships and driving new partner-based development activities to enhance Peerless-AV product knowledge and brand awareness in the rapidly growing French AV market. “France is a major growth market for us so maintaining and strengthening our routes to market is crucial,” commented Melinda Von Horvath, vice president of sales EMEA, Peerless-AV. “Cédric is a great new addition to the export Sales team with an impressive background working with several of our French customers. His experience in AV and IT distribution means he has a solid understanding of channel sales and a high level of technical expertise, which will be instrumental in taking us to the next level in the re
UK - GES has announced the appointment of Mike Phillipson as managing director of its Blitz|GES event production business with immediate effect. Phillipson will be part of the GES EMEA executive team, reporting to Jason Popp, EVP of international at GES. Phillipson is the former CEO of the creative communications agency group, Cogent Elliott and started his career working at global creative agencies Saatchi and Saatchi, Lowe and then JWT, before moving client-side to head up the marketing for the award-winning 24-hour bank, First Direct. With the addition of Phillipson, industry veteran Paul Hutton, who has been with the business since 1989 and previously served as managing director of Blitz|GES, is taking on a new role. Hutton will now focus on agency partner relationships which are key to the business and its customers. Popp commented, “I am delighted that Mi
UK - With over 25 years’ experience working in the professional audio industry - for companies such as Martin Audio, EAW and Bose, and more recently the Music Group - Kevin McNally has joined Old Barn Audio as the company’s new business development manager. Seeking a return to his roots of installation and professional sales, he was approached by OBA owners, Phil Clark and Neil Kavanagh, whom he has known for many years, with the new position in mind. “We are thrilled that Kevin has agreed to join us and expand our ever growing business,” states Clark “His knowledge and connections within the industry will greatly boost our next five-year plan and ensure that our growth continues.” The role of business development manager will encompass not only the growth of OBA’s successful install business, but also that of professional audio dealers for many to
UK - Kevin Thorborn has been promoted director of Mojo Barriers UK, following his role as UK manager for the past 17 years. Having started at Mojo Barriers in 2000 Kevin has managed the provision of stage and crowd safety barriers to over 1,000 festivals, from their local Medway Castle Concerts to Glastonbury Festival. His diverse experience spans venues from student unions to the O2 Arena, supplying concerts and European tours, which this year have included Bruno Mars, film premieres, award shows such as the Brit Awards, major public and sporting events and he has even supplied police forces in riot situations. Mojo Barriers CEO Alex Borger states: “We are delighted at Kevin’s progression since joining Mojo, particularly over the past two years when he has delivered consistently impressive results and expanded the UK business. I am sure this promotion to UK direct
UK - Event professional Scott Rooney-Ashby has joined Hawthorn as account director to support the development of new and existing business for the company’s live event technical production service. Formerly head of account management at mclcreate, Scott’s 20-year career has taken him through various roles from a technical project manager through to his current role as account director at Hawthorn. Clients he has worked with include: Royal Mail, JTI (Japan Tobacco International), RBS, Network Rail and the Olympic Delivery Authority. Scott said: “I’m thrilled to have joined the Hawthorn team at such an exciting time for the company, which has seen eye-catching growth over recent years. It’s clear over the short time I’ve been with the business that I’ll be working with a team of talented, experienced and dedicated technical event professionals and I’m ve
South Africa - Simon King is flying solo after working at the State Theatre in Pretoria for 28 years. He recently took a seat behind the grandMA2 to light La Traviata, performed at The Joburg Theatre by the Joburg Ballet, and complimented with the music of Giuseppe Verdi. “The ballet is by Veronica Paeper, a renowned South African choreographer from Cape Town, and Peter Cazalet, the set designer,” said Simon. “They have specific looks so when I create something they will say ‘yes or no’, or perhaps ask me to tinker. These are classic productions but I’m also given the liberty to play. Having worked with the ballet company since 1993, it’s like working with old friends.” Simon programmed the lighting on a grandMA2, what he describes as his happy desk. “It always works for me –it’s like my other limb and I’m very comfortable on it. It never
South Africa - Andrew Rodgers has joined South African based DWR Distribution. With his considerable experience in project management, technical skill and maintenance contracts, Andi will head the DWR Installation Department. Born and raised in Liverpool, Andi did various maintenance and repair contracts at recording studios such as the Ezee Studio and prior to that the Pink Studio in the UK before moving to South Africa in 1990 where he was offered a maintenance positioned at Sun City’s Superbowl. His colourful career has seen him working at Prosound in electronics design and maintenance, and he also did a stint or two as a freelancer in South East Asia where he worked on various projects including the project management for an audio recording studio for Taffix Solutions of Brunei. “Andi has been a wonderful friend for close to 20 years now, where we often
China - Creative Technology (CT) has announced that with immediate effect Chris Burke will take on the role of managing director of Creative Technology in Shanghai. Chris will also continue as managing director of CT in Hong Kong and Singapore. This appointment now puts all of CT’s Asia Pacific Business under his control. Chris has been with Creative Technology since 2009 and in that time, he has developed the necessary skills to effect the changes that will be needed to further develop the China business and expand CT’s operation in this region. Chris replaces Simon Tibble who passed away suddenly at his home in Shanghai just over a week ago. Simon was a key part of the China business and a true industry veteran whose skills helped develop the business into what it is today. He will be missed by all. Graham Andrews, president of Creative Technology North Ame
UK - Green Hippo has made four additions to its UK-based team. Jacqueline Attard is the UK HQ’s new financial controller, while Phil Blue joins as sales manager, expanding the technical sales team. Rob Moss enlists as junior production engineer, and Anastasia Nikolaou is the latest member of the London-based marketing team, securing the role of PR and marketing executive. Jacqueline Attard’s remit as Green Hippo financial controller sees her help manage the financial complexities of a global business; one with offices in the United States, as well as the UK. Jacqueline’s previous experience includes senior roles with large European and US companies, including Deloitte, Jones Lang Lasalle and AstraZeneca. Rob Moss brings significant technical expertise, having previously held the position of broadcasting engineer at the BBC, as well as time with Orange Ampl
UK - VER has announced the appointment of Katie Skelton to the position of commercial manager on their UK broadcast team. Having begun her career as part of the BBC’s Outside Broadcast team, Katie has extensive commercial management experience in all aspects of the broadcast market. Tasked with assisting in the further development of VER Broadcast, this new appointment will allow Katie to make good use of her considerable industry experience and strong relationship management skills to further enhance the support and service enjoyed by the company’s growing clientele. This newly created role continues VER’s global commitment to investing in expertise, service and innovation throughout its businesses, including the company’s recently expanded, full-support, London based operation. VER Broadcast director David O’Carroll comments, “Having the opportunity
USA - DPA Microphones has announced that Evan MacKenzie has joined the team as the new marketing and communications manager for the United States. In his new role, MacKenzie will be strategically planning all aspects of marketing and communications for new and existing product lines. His responsibilities will include branding execution, augmenting marketing collateral for the region, media planning and buying, event planning and artist relations. "DPA is one of the rare companies in our industry that has always put attentive focus on the end user experience using the highest quality materials, forward thinking technology and precise, uncompromising workmanship," says MacKenzie. "DPA is an authentic demonstration of what a 21st century brand can and should be in this era of instant and multiple customer touch points. I am grateful and inspired to be chosen to join the D
UK - J&C Joel, has announced a new sales structure. The changes come as the company looks to position itself for future growth. Oliver Marns, previously the UK, Europe and Russia sales manager, has now been appointed to the newly created role of sales manager to head up creative sales and focus on key accounts within the business. Marns has worked for the company for more than five years, and during this time has been involved in delivering several of the key creative projects the company has provided. His new role is designed to enhance J&C Joel’s existing offering to new and existing customers by giving them a dedicated person to deal with and ensure the firm offers innovative solutions whilst continuing to deliver on specification, budget and on time. Marns said: “I am delighted to take on the new role and I am genuinely excited to work even closer
USA - Gene Brian, a former long-time Bandit Lites team member, has returned to the family, as Bandit announces his rehiring as production manager. Gene was a key member of the Bandit family in the 1990s and early 2000s when life took him to another city and away from Bandit. Gene was a vital part of Bandit his entire prior career; following a stint on the road, Gene moved into the office and eventually assumed the role of general manager. “I am looking forward to returning to Bandit Lites and working with a team that specializes in the lighting field to the degree that Bandit does,” Gene said. “Bandit is known for delivering a quality product and I hope to further develop my skills as well as contribute to the firm’s respected reputation.” (Jim Evans)
UK - LTM – Lift Turn Move has announced a new structure for the Entertainment side of the business, appointing Stuart Fraser as head of entertainment products. He took up his new position in March and has made a dramatic impact on the business. Stuart brings more than 10 years’ experience in the entertainment industry, in engineering, product development and technical sales to LTM. His focus will be on further growing the entertainment market, as he brings a wealth of technical experience from his previous positions. Stuart will be the face to face contact for our key accounts, offering technical advice and helping to create solutions. John Jones commented, “We are delighted to welcome Stuart as our new head of entertainment products, with the experience and knowledge he brings we hope this will help serve our customers more efficiently and provide the expertise
UK - Focusrite has announced the appointment of Richard Johnstone as UK sales & marketing manager. Richard joins from Propellerhead where he was partner marketing manager for UK, Benelux and Germany. Johnstone formerly played UK management roles at Steinberg, Line 6 and Yamaha. Johnstone will manage the UK sales & marketing team, and work as part of the wider European team. He will report into the director of global marketing & sales Damian Hawley. Richard Johnstone says, "I am delighted to be joining Focusrite as UK sales & marketing manager. With a fantastic product line-up and exciting plans for the future, I am looking forward to working with Damian and the team to further grow and develop the UK business." Damian Hawley adds, "Richard’s extensive experience in channel marketing and management will further strengthen the partnership wi
China - Simon Tibble, managing director of Creative Technology in Shanghai has passed away, CT paid tribute: “We are shocked and saddened to announce that Simon Tibble, managing director of CT in Shanghai passed away suddenly earlier this week. Simon leaves his wife Brooke and four children Samuel, Emma Jane, Jamie and Olivia. Our thoughts and sympathies are with them all. Simon was a dedicated and unflappable character that will be sorely missed by all those to have met, worked or socialised with him over the years. Simon’s career in the event industry spanned 40 years including time in the UK and six years building CT’s Shanghai operation.” A Ju
Germany -Proel UK has announced the appointment of Richard Powell to the position of sales manager, taking over sales responsibility for its Axiom professional audio division. Richard has 20 years’ experience in sales management up to director level across international, commercial and retail markets. A highly competent jazz musician, Richard’s career has focused very much on professional audio – including two years as manager of Sound Control in Leeds, where he was responsible for overall performance of the large retail environment; five years in charge of the national sales team at Tascam before moving on to sales manager at Source Distribution; and most recently he was professional audio director at Production Room, the professional wing of Red Dog Music, where he headed up the UK team in branches across the UK in London, Leeds, and Edinburgh. His experience
Germany - Digital audio solutions company, DiGiCo has announced the appointment of Austin Freshwater as its general manager. Austin joins the DiGiCo team from Canon, the world-leading innovator and provider of imaging and information technology solutions, where he spent the previous 10 years working in sales, latterly becoming sales director for UK and Ireland. “During my time with Canon I developed sales into the professional broadcast sector working with the likes of NEP, the BBC and Sky as well as the AV market via their range of projectors. This gave me a valuable insight into some of DiGiCo’s markets before I joined the company. Austin will be working closely with DiGiCo’s VP sales, Ian Staddon who says, “It’s great to have Austin on-board as he brings different expertise and a new perspective to the team. I am sure he will be an asset to the busin
UK - The Fifth Estate Ltd has announced the growth of the company, with the arrival of well-known entertainment technology editor and journalist, Lee Baldock, who joins the group of experienced marketing content producers and strategists. Baldock, who left Light & Sound International (LSi) magazine this spring, joins The Fifth Estate as senior account director. Based in Sussex, Lee will work from the company's seaside office near Brighton. Working closely with creative director Sarah Rushton-Read, his focus will be on business development, alongside helping existing clients craft their brand stories for the variety of audiences and platforms that today's marketing communications need to reach. Baldock's long career has seen him spend 22 years representing the entertainment technology industry working on leading B2B publication LSi, gaining experience under t
UK - The Board of John Hornby Skewes & Co. Ltd has announced that effective 1 April 2017, Mrs Linda Drumm will be taking up the role of chairman, bringing a wealth of knowledge of the company and our industry, maintaining what the board feels is absolutely crucial family continuity and ensuring that JHS retains the personal touch which has always been at the heart of its interactions with customers, suppliers and staff. Linda commented, “I’m looking forward to taking up the chairmanship at JHS enormously. After forty years of involvement with the company in a variety of roles, I’m confident that with the support of an exceptional and talented Board of Directors, dedicated managers and so many loyal and hard-working staff, we have a professional team which can drive the company forward and continue to build on the wonderful ‘family company’ legacy that my parent
Denmark - Scandinavian supplier of AV equipment Neets has announced two new additions to the company: Bo Jordansen joins as head of sales and Michael Rumph as the new product manager for the company’s AV offerings. Together, these new appointments will strengthen the company’s focus on placing customers at the heart of its products and expanding the company’s international footprint. As product manager, Michael will be responsible for leading cross-functional efforts to develop innovative and customer-centric products. He will support Neets in its continued efforts to make life easier for presenters around the world and stay focused on customer needs. With over 20 years’ experience working within both sales and systems design in the AV industry, Michael is well equipped to take on this new role. Michael said, “Neets is well-known for delivering high-qua
UK - Creative technical production expert Hawthorn has expanded its in-house scenic department to enhance its set design and manufacturing service and meet increasing demand from clients. To support the ongoing development of the department, Daniel Carden joined the company in October 2016, taking up the role of head of scenic. Having previously worked in Dubai, Dan brought with him a wealth of experience in set building for exhibitions, events and theatre. Having been in position for six months now, he has already made a significant impact on the six-man strong department, including overseeing the purchase of a new CNC machine. CNC (Computer Numerical Control) involves the use of computers to control machine tools. The machine enables much more precise manufacture than manual machining and can produce complex shapes that would otherwise be impossible to achieve. The n
Germany - d&b audiotechnik has appointed David Claringbold as chief marketing officer. The former director of Sydney Opera House, and member of the d&b audiotechnik Advisory Board, joins the management team effective 29 March, reporting directly to CEO Amnon Harman. Claringbold, who has relocated from Australia to Germany, succeeds Sabina Berloffa in the role. As chief marketing officer, Claringbold’s leadership covers marketing communications, public relations, brand management, market intelligence and product management. His appointment will support the company as it further develops its segment strategy particularly within the installation market, while maintaining a strong position in mobile sectors. At the iconic Sydney Opera House, Claringbold held several senior management positions over a period of almost 20years, most recently as director theatre an
