People

Details

30 May 2025

UK - Backup Tech, the charity supporting those working behind the scenes in the entertainment technology industry, has announced the latest additions to its ambassador lineup. Under the guidance of Backup trustee Koy Neminathan, who oversees the ambassador programme, the organisation has welcomed Suzi Green and Gemma Fletcher into its growing roster of representatives.

As Backup ambassadors, Suzi and Gemma will champion the charity's mission throughout the entertainment industry, spreading awareness of the charity’s work, helping create and support wellbeing related initiatives that tie in with Backup’s remit, as well as recruiting corporate partners and supporting individual fundraising efforts. Their roles include representing Backup at industry events, meetings, and the popular annual Backup Village Fete. Here they share their personal connec

Details

30 May 2025

USA - The lighting design community is mourning the loss of Paul Marantz, co-founder of Fisher Marantz Stone, who has passed away. A lighting visionary, he helped to transform the perception of lighting design as a profession.

Alongside Jules Fisher, Marantz co-founded the company that would become Fisher Marantz Stone in 1971, creating a legacy of creativity and genius that continues to inspire to this day.

Paula Martinez-Nobles, president, Fisher Marantz Stone said: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Paul Marantz. Paul and Jules founded the company that would become FMS in 1971, creating a legacy of creativity and genius that continues to brighten our lives and the world around us. Thank you, Paul, for your wit and wisdom. We honour your life and legacy.”

Initially working in theatre lighting, Marantz held a strong inter

Details

29 May 2025

Canada - Denis Richard, who unexpectedly died on 29 March 2025, was a pioneer in the Canadian music touring and production industry. During his nearly 50-year career, he made a significant and lasting impact on the growth of the entertainment lighting production and rental industry in Canada. In that time, he toured with and managed lighting and production services for live artists and supported multiple popular TV productions. Christie Lites has paid tribute:

“For the last 30 years, Denis was a key account handler for Christie Lites’ Toronto office. His professional life exemplified his exacting high standards. Denis led by example, always demanding as much from himself as he did of others. He loved and was fascinated by people. His curiosity about what drove others meant Denis got to know those he worked with and what they wanted swiftly. Many of the l

Details

28 May 2025

USA - Harman Professional Solutions has announced the appointment of Sebastien Laffoux as director of lighting sales for North America. In this role, Laffoux will drive strategic growth and lead the sales organisation for Harman’s portfolio of professional lighting solutions, with a focus on expanding market share across the live entertainment, install, and architectural sectors.

Laffoux brings more than 15 years of senior leadership experience in the professional lighting and entertainment technology space. Prior to joining Harman, he served as vice president of sales at ARRI, where he oversaw B2B and SMB sales operations across North and South America.

“Sebastien brings a high degree of business acumen to the Martin sales team, as well as a deep understanding of consultative selling techniques and how to grow the sales pipeline,” said Mike Sc

Details

22 May 2025

UK - Martin Audio has strengthened its technical resource with the appointment of Ben Todd as senior applications specialist. The role will also encompass opportunities to intersect with sister brands such as Optimal Audio and TiMax, as the wider Focusrite Group Audio Reproduction division gains further ground with coordinated solutions becoming increasingly prevalent in the installation sector.

He arrives following an extensive career with Harman Pro, where he was senior application engineer for EMEA, followed by a brief period at Holoplot. Prior to that Todd was with UK distributor Sound Technology for nine years – the last six of which he spent leading their technical team.

The skills learnt in complex technical integration will stand him in good stead for his new role, as Martin Audio strives to push further into the integration market with its

Details

21 May 2025

UK - Solstice AV has announced the appointment of Chris Ball as its new chief financial officer (CFO) and chief operating officer (COO).

Based in Solstice AV’s Diss and Tewkesbury offices, Chris joins the company’s board of directors, reporting to chairman Tony Hunt. His key responsibilities will include reviewing and overseeing the company’s financial planning, risk management, and operational performance.

His appointment follows recent news announcements from Solstice AV to mark its UK distribution partnerships with LED and interactive displays providers LianTronics and i3CONNECT, delivering even greater choice and value to UK resellers.

Commenting on his new role, Chris Ball said: "I am honoured to join Solstice AV at such an exciting time in the company’s journey. Solstice AV has built a strong reputation for innovation and excell

Details

20 May 2025

UK - Media control solutions specialist Hive is expanding its team with five new roles as it continues to scale. Rory Jervis joins as sales director to drive commercial growth, while Nigel Sadler has been promoted to chief pollinator, a newly created role focused on strengthening partnerships and amplifying Hive’s vision.

Further reinforcing Hive’s expansion, Ciaran Abrams has been appointed as lead developer, Danielle Hastings joins as customer service executive and Alex Couzins steps in as marketing specialist.

In his new role as chief pollinator, Nigel Sadler will lead Hive’s mission to democratise the media engine market, making complex video technology more accessible. With a passion for storytelling and deep industry expertise, Nigel will focus on forging strong partnerships and expanding Hive’s influence.

As sales director, Ror

Details

16 May 2025

UK - Spotlight Sound, a fast-growing national AV and event production company based in Essex, has announced the appointment of Ed Guest as its new AV service engineer. With over 15 years of experience across theatre, live events, and AV installation, Ed brings considerable technical expertise to the expanding Spotlight Sound team.

Spotlight Sound specialises in audio-visual installations, event production, and equipment hire across the UK, with clients ranging from local authorities and schools to national venues and entertainment providers. As the company continues to grow, Ed’s addition is set to strengthen its technical offering and drive further excellence in project delivery.

Ed's journey in AV began in school theatres, eventually leading him to a BTEC in technical theatre and a BA in Lighting Design at Rose Bruford College. He has worked in s

Details

15 May 2025

UK - Architectural LED lighting brand Anolis – a Robe business – has appointed Eloise Reed as its international specification manager.

Eloise is based in the UK and will be travelling extensively both nationally and internationally in her role for the Czech Republic-based manufacturer, which will include streamlining the design support and tender processes for clients and boosting the Anolis profile within the architectural lighting community, and as an essential element of the wider ‘Robe Group’ of premium brands.

Australian-born Eloise’s journey into the lighting industry started at WAAPA (Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts) in Perth, a well-known melting pot for creativity and independent thinking, where she graduated with a Performing Arts degree equivalent, majoring in lighting.

Simultaneously, Eloise was also working

Details

14 May 2025

UK - Void Acoustics has appointed Sam Brandon as its new managing director. He succeeds co-founder Alex Skan, who has held the position since 2016 and will continue to play an active role within the business.

Founded over two decades ago by Rog Mogale and Alex Skan, Void Acoustics under Alex’s leadership has expanded globally and cemented its reputation worldwide. Alex has also played a key role in expanding Void Acoustics’ partner network and internal team, including recently appointing Andy Rigler as head of sales.

Reflecting on his tenure, Alex said: “I’m excited to welcome our new managing director, Sam, to the Void team. While I will be transitioning out of the managing director role, I will remain actively involved with Void Acoustics, supporting our team and contributing to the vision and culture that define our success.

"What

Details

14 May 2025

USA - Flock Audio has announced the appointment of Chant Duplantier as the company’s new vice president of sales. Duplantier brings decades of experience in both the technology and music industries to the company. ​

“Chant has been a long-time friend of the company and his experience in all aspects of the tech industry – from hardware and software engineering to product management and sales – makes him an invaluable asset to our rapidly growing team here in the US,” said Flock Audio founder and CEO Darren Nakonechny. “We’re incredibly excited to bring him into Flock and are already seeing the impact of his enthusiasm and experience on our operations.”

Originally from South Louisiana, Duplantier has been a fixture of the Dallas-Fort Worth area for more than 20 years. In addition to his decades of experience in the technology industry

Details

13 May 2025

UK - It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Russell Dunsire, founder and chairman of LSI Projects. Creating the company over 30 years ago, Russell was the initial driving force behind LSI.

Having previously served as international sales and marketing director at Rank Strand Lighting for almost two decades, Russell left Strand to create Lighting Systems International in 1991. Appointed as the UK distributor for ADB Lighting and based out of the Siemens office complex in Sunbury-on-Thames, Russell helped build ADB Lighting into one of the strongest theatre and television lighting brands in the country.

With his global experience in overseas markets, ADB entrusted more regions to LSI with the developing Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions creating opportunities that allowed LSI to open offices in Kuala Lumpur and Dubai.

Ever kee

Details

13 May 2025

UK - Brompton Technology has announced the appointment of Steve Leyland as its new chairman of the board.

Leyland’s appointment follows the resignation of Brompton’s previous Chairman, Neil Gaydon, for health reasons. Neil joined at the time of Brompton receiving investment from specialist private equity provider Connection Capital in 2022 and has played a central role in developing Brompton’s growth strategy. “We are very grateful to Neil for all his support and wish him the very best,” says Richard Mead, Brompton’s CEO.

A seasoned executive and respected voice in the AV industry, Leyland brings with him decades of international leadership experience, including senior roles at Barco, Polycom, and Intel, and a proven track record of driving growth and strategic transformation across global markets. Leyland currently runs a consulting prac

Details

13 May 2025

UK - Absen has sharpened its UK ProAV focus with three new strategic hires. This move – designed to fuel the company’s ambitious regional growth plans – reinforces its dedication to localised service and strong relationships across Europe. The reinforced UK division also underscores its pledge to provide advanced LED solutions and exceptional service throughout the UK. Joining the UK Absen team are:

Peter Mytton-Bayley – business development executive: With 30 years of experience in consultant and strategic roles within the AV sector, including significant work in corporate and education installations,

Peter joins Absen’s UK team to support its expanding market presence. He will leverage his extensive industry knowledge to drive the adoption of Absen LED in upcoming projects and champion Absen's commitment to sustainability through its Abse

Details

12 May 2025

South Africa - DWR Distribution has announced the addition of Kyle Freemantle, a senior audio engineer and systems engineer, to the sales team in the role of solution architect.

In this position, Kyle will lead the design of technical solutions, deliver presentations and live demonstrations to clients, address technical challenges within DWR proposals to clients, and play a key role in shaping sales strategies from project inception to completion.

Kyle is no stranger to the South African live events industry. A freelancer since 2013, he has worked on some of the country’s most prominent shows and events. Now, for the first time in his career, Kyle is stepping into a permanent position.

“We are truly honoured to have Kyle join our team,” says Duncan Riley of DWR. “His experience and fresh perspectives will greatly benefit our clients,

Details

09 May 2025

Europe - Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW) has announced the appointment of industry veteran David Budge and Blue5 Technology as an independent sales rep for Europe. In this role, Budge and Blue5 will work with EAW’s sales team to support existing partners in Europe as well as identify and bring on new partners in countries that do not currently have local EAW representation.

“EAW is excited to welcome David Budge and Blue5 to the team,” says TJ Smith, president of Eastern Acoustic Works. “With specialties in sales, channel and relationship management in the EMEA region, we look forward to his expertise in developing business and solidifying customer relationships across Europe.”

Budge serves as managing director at Blue5 Technology where he has been since 2020. Headquartered just outside of London, England, Blue5 Technology offers manufacturers

Details

07 May 2025

UK - Genelec has announced the appointment of Perry Swain as regional business development manager, focusing on the UK market alongside Genelec colleague Andy Bensley.

Located in the London area, Swain will mirror Bensley’s role in supporting Genelec’s local distribution partners and bringing the company even closer to its major UK customers. With Bensley located in the north of England, Swain’s appointment in the south significantly strengthens Genelec’s presence across the UK.

A keen musician and producer, Swain has gained many years of experience in pro audio, AV and MI, occupying sales, procurement, and brand management roles in retail, distribution, and manufacturing. Most recently, Swain has been UK territory manager for Bose Professional but has a deep knowledge of Genelec technology through his previous position as Genelec brand manag

Details

06 May 2025

USA - Sadly, we report the passing last week of Robe Lighting’s Bob Schacherl. Robe has issued the following tribute:

"Bob Schacherl – beloved friend, colleague, Robe Family member and professional entertainment lighting industry legend – sadly passed away last week, aged 70.

Bob served as CEO of Robe Lighting Inc from 2013 until his retirement in 2019 and will be much missed by all in the Robe organisation alongside those in the industry who had the privilege of working with him.

Robe lighting s.r.o. CEO Josef Valchar stated: “Bob was a great team builder! He joined some already excellent people in place at Robe’s Fort Lauderdale, Florida, headquarters and helped boost our presence in the USA by assembling a fantastic sales and marketing force. His opinions, ideas and vast knowledge were invaluable to our

Details

06 May 2025

UK - Area Four Industries Direct UK, provider of structural solutions and trussing systems for the entertainment, events, and motorsport industries, has announced the appointment of Alistair J. Frary as its new director of motorsport.

With over two decades of experience in motorsport engineering and live event infrastructure, Alistair brings a combination of technical expertise, operational leadership, and industry insight to the role. His appointment marks a significant step in Area Four Industries Direct UK’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence within the motorsport sector.

Alistair J. Frary has a distinguished track record working across premier motorsport series, including Formula 1, WEC, and touring cars, where he has led the delivery of bespoke structures, paddock solutions, and event infrastructure. In his new role, he will overs

Details

06 May 2025

UAE - LEA Professional has announced the appointment of Gopi Ethirajan, technical sales manager at HL Group, to the LEA pre-sales support team. In this role, Ethirajan will play a key role in supporting LEA's pre-sales efforts, working closely with the team to expand the company’s presence and build strategic customer relationships throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

Ethirajan has 18 years of experience in the AV industry, specialising in consulting, integration, distribution, and project management. His extensive background gives him a perspective and a deep understanding of customer needs. As a trusted advisor, 100% dedicated to LEA, he will leverage his long-standing relationships within the industry to support the company’s mission.

“I’m looking forward to helping a company that’s not only leading the charge in continu

Details

01 May 2025

USA - Professional Wireless Systems (PWS) is expanding its New York-based team with the appointment of Josh Lampf as B2B and business development lead, and Chris Budin as operations coordinator. 

In his role Lampf will represent PWS at trade shows, networking events and industry gatherings, making key connections. He will also collaborate with engineers to leverage cutting-edge technology and help PWS build strong client relationships, delivering solutions that enhance overall customer satisfaction.

Budin will manage business logistics to ensure the company continues to run smoothly, overseeing various tasks such as monitoring projects and ensuring deadlines are met while working closely with employees and management. His new role will rely heavily on his production and project management skills.

“We are excited to welcome Josh and Chris t

Details

01 May 2025

USA - Atlona has promoted Paul Krizan to product line manager effective immediately. Reporting to Atlona executive director Jamey Swigert, Krizan will drive the innovation cycle for Atlona, leading the product management and hardware engineering teams as they bring the next generation of Altona’s AV products to life. He will also maintain and evolve the existing portfolio of Atlona collaboration, connectivity and control products worldwide.

Krizan joined Atlona as product manager, networked AV in 2020, where he was responsible for managing the complete product lifecycle for the company’s AV over IP solutions. His achievements include the development and launch of OmniStream 2.0, a free firmware upgrade that added 4K/60 4:4:4 video support, improved bitrate efficiency, integrated multiview processing and near-zero latency to existing OmniStream hardware.<

Details

29 April 2025

UK - The ISCVE has announced the appointment of Jim Smith as its new president, officially introduced at this year’s ISCVEx event.

Smith brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the audio, communications and AV industries and at ISCVEx, he shared his gratitude and optimism for the future of the Institute.

“I’m deeply honoured and excited to take on the role of president of the ISCVE. I look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place and supporting the delivery of key initiatives, such as the Good Sound Charter and Training for Microphone Users. I’m especially keen on supporting the development of new and yet to be conceived initiatives with a particular focus on AV and ESG (Environment, Social and Governance).

“In the last couple of years, the Institute has forged valuable partnershi

Details

25 April 2025

Europe - PPDS has announced the unexpected passing of Martijn van der Woude, VP of global business development and marketing.

Martijn joined PPDS in 2019 and enjoyed a career spanning more than 25 years in business development, sales and marketing, and general management.

Renowned in the AV industry and beyond as an entrepreneurial enabler, prior to joining PPDS he was co-founder and CEO of a Hong Kong and China-based dvLED manufacturer for the sport, media and events markets globally, and before this decade in Asia, Martijn founded and owned a Dutch-based international software and consultancy company.

As many will know, Martijn was also a passionate advocate for promoting sustainability in the AV industry, steering PPDS' sustainability strategy and commitments to bringing more environmentally conscious solutions to market.

Above all