People News

Australia – LSC Control Systems, an Australia-based manufacturer of advanced power and control system technologies, has confirmed the latest key addition to its expanding capabilities with the appointment of Hugh McDonald as R&D manager / senior software engineer.

A highly experienced software specialist, Hugh brings to LSC’s growing team an extensive track record in both software engineering and project management for high-technology global businesses. His most recent work was in system engineering and product development for Beam Communications, the premier Australian satellite communication systems manufacturer. Prior to this, he spent 18 years working at NEC Corporation in a variety of software and project management roles.

Commenting on the appointment, LSC’s founder and CEO Gary Pritchard says: “LSC has built its reputation over more than 45 years through innovative thinking, leading to the design of market-leading products. Our success is down to an exceptional R&D team, incorporating feedback and insights from all areas of the business.”

He continues: “As we consider the next chapter in the LSC story, we have identified the need to further strengthen our software development resources and that includes having an R&D manager with experience of steering the development of high-tech products for much larger corporations. We warmly welcome Hugh to the team in what is an important leadership role within LSC Control Systems.”

LSC Control Systems’ ongoing growth strategy follows its acquisition by Robe Lighting s.r.o. in 2024.

7th July 2026

Ayrton adds Mario Lopez to its team of Designer Relationship Managers

France – Ayrton has announced Mario Lopez has joined the team of Ayrton designer relationship managers where he will have a special focus on the Spanish-speaking lighting designer community. The appointment takes place with immediate effect.

With more than two decades of experience in the lighting industry, Lopez has built a strong international reputation as a lighting director, programmer, operator and technical trainer. Having worked across touring, live events, television, fashion and large-scale productions, he combines extensive hands-on experience with deep technical expertise. His background in training and technical support for leading lighting and visual control platforms has enabled him to build a broad network of industry professionals, while gaining a deep understanding of the creative and technical challenges faced by designers and operators.

“I’m excited to join Ayrton because it is a brand that combines innovation, creativity and a close connection with the lighting community,” states Lopez. “Throughout my career, I have worked closely with designers, programmers and production teams worldwide, and I look forward to contributing my technical knowledge, field experience and industry relationships to help strengthen those connections and support the continued growth of the brand.”

“We are delighted to welcome Mario Lopez to the Ayrton family,” comments Michael Althaus, CEO of Ayrton. “Mario brings an exceptional combination of technical expertise, international experience and close connection with the lighting design community. His passion for innovation and dedication to supporting designers make him a perfect fit for Ayrton and we are excited to strengthen our relationship with the Spanish-speaking market through his appointment. We look forward to the energy, knowledge and creativity he will bring to the team.”

7th July 2026

Fabrice Dayan Joins SGM as Country Manager for France

France – SGM Lighting is strengthening its European presence with the appointment of Fabrice Dayan as country manager for France.

As SGM continues to expand its entertainment lighting portfolio including the PALCO family, the company is increasing its investment in local sales, customer support and closer relationships with customers and partners across Europe.

Fabrice Dayan brings more than 30 years of experience from the professional audio, music production and entertainment lighting industries. Beginning his career in 1994, he combines extensive technical knowledge with a long track record in sales, business development and manufacturer representation.

Throughout his career, Fabrice has worked with many of the industry's leading brands including JBL, AKG, Soundcraft, VARI*LITE, Star-Way, RME, Ableton, Native Instruments, LD Systems and CAMEO Lighting, building strong relationships throughout the French entertainment market.

Most recently, Fabrice spent more than a decade with Adam Hall Group, serving as sales representative west from 2015 to 2026, while also acting as product specialist for CAMEO Lighting in France from 2019 onwards.

His appointment reflects SGM’s commitment to strengthening local customer engagement and supporting the growing demand for innovative entertainment lighting solutions in France.

“I am excited to join SGM and become part of this new journey,” says Fabrice Dayan. “SGM has always stood out to me through its innovation, product philosophy and strong reputation within the industry, and I look forward to developing the French market together with the team.”

7th July 2026

Production Futures Breakthrough Talent Award Winner Celebrates More Success at TRIC Awards

UK – Production Futures recently celebrated a landmark moment for emerging talent in broadcasting with the presentation of the inaugural Broadcast Newcomer Award at this year's TRIC (Television and Radio Industries Club) Awards. The Award, a collaboration between Production Futures and TRIC, recognises outstanding early-career talent and highlights the importance of perseverance, opportunity and access within the broadcast industry.

The recipient, Will Swain, a graduate of Solent University and former Production Futures Breakthrough Talent Award winner, shared a powerful story of determination, revealing that he received 88 rejections from employers before securing the breakthrough role at Sky News which launched his career. His story resonated throughout the Awards ceremony, where acceptance speeches repeatedly reflected on the challenges and setbacks that often define the journey into the creative and broadcast industries.

The Broadcast Newcomer Award was introduced following discussions between Production Futures and TRIC, who recognised the need to celebrate the next generation of talent alongside established industry figures. A key driving force behind the initiative was Lou Robey, former head of change at the BBC and founder of Voice4Impact, who has been a longstanding supporter of Production Futures and its mission to improve access and opportunity across the creative industries.

Will comments: “Sky took a chance on me, welcomed me into the industry and gave me the opportunity to prove myself. They provided me with my first real-world industry experience in live broadcasting and helped me to take the first steps into a career that I had worked so hard to try and achieve, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.

“A huge thank you must also go to Production Futures for really helping to bring emerging talent upfront in the industry. The way that they work to create opportunities for the next generation entering the industry is just amazing to see. Their advice and encouragement throughout my own journey played a significant part in helping me get to this point. To now be able to say that I have won a TRIC Award is just crazy!”

Hannah Eakins, CEO of Production Futures, adds: “Will joins an impressive list of Breakthrough Talent Award winners who have gone on to secure major industry awards and his story perfectly demonstrates why this TRIC Award matters so much. Too often, we only see the success and not the journey that came before it. The Broadcast Newcomer Award shines a light on the resilience, determination and talent required to break into our industry. By celebrating those journeys, we hope to inspire the next generation of young people to keep going, even when the path isn’t straightforward.”

Production Futures continues to work with employers, educators, industry organisations and partners to connect young people with opportunities, career pathways, and role models across broadcasting, live events, production, and entertainment technology.

1st July 2026

ETC Appoints New VP of European Operations

Europe - ETC has announced that Darren Beckley has assumed the role of vice president of European operations, effective immediately. This new role supports ETC’s plans for more localised decision making and reinforces the company’s commitment to empowering regional teams to better serve customers across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Darren joined ETC in 2016 as the regional sales manager for the Middle East and has led ETC Ltd’s sales operations since 2017. Prior to joining ETC, he was the head of sales for Stage Electrics global projects division.

“In his career at ETC, Darren has consistently demonstrated a strategic mind and a collaborative approach,” said James Foster, president: “I am confident that he will bring our European offices together as a unified team, leveraging the skills and assets of each company to support continued growth in this important region. I’m excited to bring his breadth of international experience to the executive team.”

“ETC’s European operations are such an exciting opportunity for further development,” said Darren Beckley, VP of European operations: “I am really looking forward to working with the teams across our European businesses to serve our customers with world class products, great innovations and industry leading service.”

With this change, David Lincecum will continue to focus on growing ETC’s automated lighting business through the Austin office while also overseeing the APAC region as vice president of APAC and Austin operations.

30th June 2026

Flints Announces Managing Director Retirement and Leadership Transition

UK – Flints has announced that Ben Lyle is retiring from the role of managing director following more than 30 years with the business. Dave Clarke (pictured), currently operations director, will succeed him as managing director, with a six‑month crossover period in place to support a smooth and thoughtful transition.

Ben joined Flints over three decades ago and spent many years as finance director before being appointed managing director in 2018. Since taking on the role, he has guided the business through a period of continued growth and evolution, underpinned by a strong commitment to people, customers and long‑term stability.

Reflecting on his upcoming retirement, Ben said: “After more than 30 years with Flints, it feels like the right time to begin a new chapter. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with such dedicated colleagues and to have played a part in shaping the business over many years, including the opportunity to lead it since 2018. I’m pleased to be working closely with Dave during the crossover period and have every confidence in his leadership.”

Dave has been with Flints since 2004 and has developed a deep understanding of the organisation through his oversight of operations and key developments. During the six‑month crossover period, he will work alongside Ben to ensure continuity, knowledge sharing, and a seamless handover.

Andy Repka, finance director, commented: “Ben’s contribution to Flints over more than three decades cannot be overstated. From his time as finance director through to his leadership as managing director since 2018, he has embodied the values of the business. The appointment of Dave represents a natural next step, and the six‑month crossover reflects our commitment to a careful and considered transition.”

Dave Clarke added: “I’m looking forward to taking on the role of managing director and continuing the work that has made Flints such a respected name within the industry. The business has built its reputation on knowledge, service and long-standing customer relationships, and I’m focused on carrying those values forward as we continue to grow and evolve. Ben has played a significant part in shaping the business and I’m grateful to have his support during the transition.”

Following the six‑month crossover period, Ben will formally step down from the board, leaving behind a strong legacy and a business well prepared for its next chapter.

24th June 2026

Live Technology Appoints Curtis Lewis

UK - Leading supplier to the audio, lighting, and video markets, Live Technology, has announced the appointment of Curtis Lewis to the position of lighting sales manager. Curtis will represent Live Technology’s extensive lighting portfolio, with a focus on supporting and supplying new and existing customers, including maintaining and developing close relationships with lighting designers.

With 25 years’ experience in lighting sales, Curtis brings a proven track record of success to Live Technology. Whilst dealing across the board with all of Live Technology’s distributed lighting brands: Elation, Obsidian, Robert Juliat, Stage Smarts, Martin and JEM, he will take the lead for the company on Elation products, with a view to accelerating the brand’s growth in the UK market. Curtis perfectly fits the Live Technology profile according to the company’s head of lighting Joshua Wakley: “Alongside a comprehensive understanding of the industry, Curtis demonstrates a level of passion and enthusiasm for the sector which exactly reflects the Live Technology ethos. A well-respected and trusted figure in the industry, his success has been built on forging strong and lasting relationships with his customers. We are delighted to have him on board as part of our expert team.”

Curtis Lewis adds: “I was in search of a fresh challenge in the industry, so when the opportunity arose to become part of the Live Technology team, I had no hesitation in accepting the offer; the company’s distinctly customer-focused outlook very much resonates with my own approach to business. Although my principal focus will be to lead on Elation, I’m also excited to be representing our full portfolio of industry-leading brands and working with customers to help them achieve excellent solutions in every area of the sector.”

1st June 2026

AbsenLive makes first Benelux business development appointment with Olivier De Bock

Belgium – Absen, a global leader in LED display technology, has appointed Olivier De Bock as business development manager for AbsenLive in the Benelux region. The appointment marks the first time AbsenLive has introduced a localised business development position dedicated to the live events and entertainment market across Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

Operating from Belgium, Olivier will be responsible for supporting AbsenLive’s continued growth across the Benelux market. His role will centre on developing new business opportunities, strengthening relationships with clients and partners, and supporting the delivery of LED display solutions tailored to live events, broadcast and entertainment environments.

With over two decades of experience in broadcast production, live events and display technologies, Olivier offers a blend of technical knowledge and commercial acumen. Before joining AbsenLive, he held positions as manager at VIDIZO BV and business development manager at VOVID NV and also spent 13 years freelancing as a vision mixer on prominent live productions. His expertise covers everything from live news studio hardware and multicamera production to digital signage and major live events, such as corporate shows, award ceremonies and sporting events.

“The live events sector demands technology that is dependable, adaptable and well understood by the teams using it,” says Olivier. “AbsenLive has a strong product portfolio for this market and I’m looking forward to working closely with production partners in Benelux to support projects with solutions that meet the realities of live operation.”

“Olivier joins AbsenLive with a strong understanding of the Benelux market and how LED technology is applied in live environments,” says Debbie Zheng, director of AbsenLive. “As our first locally based business development manager for AbsenLive in the region, his appointment allows us to engage more closely with partners in the region and supports our aim to build lasting relationships. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the team.”

22nd May 2026

Direct sales in Germany with Jürgen Nordhoff on board

Germany – SGM Lighting is strengthening its presence in the German market with the appointment of Jürgen Nordhoff as area sales manager for Germany.

With the continued expansion of SGM’s architectural and entertainment lighting portfolio, including the PALCO and POI families, the company is increasing its focus on direct market engagement and customer support in Germany.

Jürgen Nordhoff brings more than 25 years of experience from the lighting and events industry. Beginning his career in 2000 at Lightpower as sales and key account manager, he has worked extensively with professional lighting solutions and customer relations across both entertainment and permanent installation projects.

In 2022, Jürgen joined GLP, where he further expanded his expertise within the installation market. At the beginning of 2025, he established his own company focused on lighting installations and project development.

“Throughout my entire career, SGM has continuously stood out positively to me,” says Jürgen Nordhoff. “I am very much looking forward to this exciting journey and to helping strengthen SGM’s position in the German market.”

The appointment reflects SGM’s strategic commitment to closer customer relationships and local market support as demand continues to grow for the company’s architectural and entertainment lighting solutions.

15th May 2026

Ayrton appoints Koen Ceulemans for International Sales in Europe

Belgium – Ayrton has announced the appointment of Koen Ceulemans as its latest team member in international sales. Working with Ayrton’s European sales director, Matt Hallard and with an initial focus on Northern Europe, Ceulemans appointment begins with immediate effect.

Ceulemans comes with over 15 years of experience working with Ayrton’s exclusive Belgian distributor, FACE, where he was key account manager for the BeLux countries looking after theatre, rental and project markets before concentrating mainly on the Ayrton brand in these areas.

“An opportunity arose to work with Ayrton directly, so I decided to bring my experience as a distributor directly to the manufacturing side and focus my energies on promoting the brand in which I have such a depth of knowledge and total faith,” says Ceulemans. “I’ve loved Ayrton as a brand since day one and have witnessed first-hand its evolution into what it is today. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience as a distributor to those in the Ayrton network who are working in challenging markets and helping them to develop their strategies.

“I also have a great relationship with the Ayrton team, having worked closely with them as their distributor for over a decade. Ayrton has retained the special vibe that has existed since its early days and joining the team feels like coming home to friends. It therefore seems a logical step to become part of this growth and I am very happy to join Ayrton for this reason.”

“Koen’s experience at the forefront of distribution will bring many benefits to Ayrton and our partners,” says Ayrton’s global sales director, Massimo Bolandrina. “We are all very glad to welcome such a professional to our team with his determination, energy and positive approach. We are sure he will bring enormous assistance to the growth of Ayrton and he will be a great force on our side in mastering the challenges and exploring the opportunities in our beloved industry. Looking forward to working with him!”