People News

DiGiCo expands Technical Support Capacity with the hire of Sam North as Technical Sales Support Engineer

DiGiCo expands Technical Support Capacity with the hire of Sam North as Technical Sales Support Engineer

UK – DiGiCo has announce the appointment of Sam North as technical sales support engineer. His engagement cements DiGiCo’s commitment to ensuring every DiGiCo customer can maximise their use of DiGiCo consoles, elevating the experience for both engineer and audience.

North joins DiGiCo following an extensive career in the audio industry. He trained at the University of Salford, gaining a BA in Popular Music and Recording with first class honours, and graduated with distinction from the MA in Digital Production for TV & Film. After his education, he worked for other high-profile manufacturers, building their operations both domestically and internationally. He has always enjoyed a focus on education, so his role at DiGiCo will expand on that passion, offering the opportunity to develop stronger relationships with engineers and the wider industry via training and support.

“DiGiCo is an iconic brand and one that I have always been fascinated by,” North explains. “My new role feels like a natural progression for my career, and I am very excited to talk to all the amazing engineers who use DiGiCo products. It’s going to be fantastic.”

DiGiCo is renowned for the quality of its training output with both in-person and online offerings. Sam’s addition to the team will expand these sessions, reinstating regular training opportunities at the Chessington Headquarters and instigating UK-wide regional training days via the expansive network of DiGiCo distributors and stockists. The educational scope will also cover more functionality and application videos, available online as an additional support resource. With the addition of Sam's expertise, DiGiCo will continue to focus on training and education, increasing output for both online and in person training sessions, delivering more content than ever before.

“Appointing Sam as technical sales support engineer is an opportunity to really focus on our relationship with our dealers and customers, so we can begin to offer many more local training days,” Ian Staddon, DiGiCo Vice President of Sales, concludes. “Being based in Manchester means that Sam can be very hands-on and travel anywhere in the country. We are delighted that Sam has chosen to join us and get our training back on a regular footing.”

Sam North will join the DiGiCo team on stand 7F300 at ISE 2025.

3rd February 2025

LSC appoints lighting specialist to lead Avolites representation

LSC appoints lighting specialist to lead Avolites representation

Australia – Following the news that LSC Control Systems will distribute the products of UK-based Avolites in Australia and New Zealand, LSC has announced the appointment of a dedicated Avolites specialist. Clare Springett, as business development manager Avolites Australia and New Zealand, will head up sales and support for the famous lighting control brand in the region, beginning with immediate effect.

A well-known presence in Australia’s professional show production world, Clare is an experienced lighting designer, production manager, arts practitioner, venue manager and theatre technician. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Performance, a diploma in Live Production Theatre & Events and within a remarkably diverse skill set has a forklift licence, basic and intermediate rigging qualifications and a heavy vehicle driver’s licence.

Most recently she worked as sales and hire manager at Concert Lighting Systems Australia and was the touring LD and operator for Tim Minchin’s 2024 tour UNFUNNY – An Evening with Tim Minchin and his Piano. Also, on her resumé, she is a Green Room Award nominee (lighting design) and was acting chairperson for the VAPAC Technical Managers Network in 2018 and 2019.

Clare is looking forward to working with existing Avolites customers, as well as building new connections and introducing designers/programmers and operators to the company’s range of consoles. She says: “We have an exciting opportunity to build a really strong and supportive Avolites community here, and I’m very chuffed to be a part of it as it takes off.”

With a broad and varied career in lighting, Clare has a strong track record in the industry and a unique perspective on the needs of the market. “I want the ever-growing Avolites community to know that they are supported and that they are being listened to,” she says.

LSC, the Melbourne, Australia-based manufacturer of advanced dimming, power distribution and power management solutions, was acquired by Robe lighting s.r.o. in early 2024, joining Avolites as part of the Robe group of businesses. In August it was announced that LSC would represent the Avolites brand in its home territory and the search began for a professional to lead that effort.

Having encountered LSC many times over the years, Clare says: “One thing has never changed: the quality of the products and the knowledge and support offered by the staff.” She adds: “To have these two companies now working together is kind of mind-blowing. The possibilities are almost endless.”

Welcoming Clare to the company, LSC’s general manager Greg Lowe comments: “We’re delighted that Clare has joined us to take on this challenge. With her range of skills and experience we have no doubt that she will play a valuable role in our expanding operation.”

3rd February 2025

Henk-Jan Blok appointed Technical Applications Specialist at Follow-Me

Henk-Jan Blok appointed Technical Applications Specialist at Follow-Me

The Netherlands – Follow-Me, a leading manufacturer of performer tracking and automated followspot systems, has announced the appointment of Henk-jan Blok as technical applications specialist. With two decades of experience in the live production industry, Blok brings a wealth of knowledge in technical applications, systems engineering and customer support to his new role.

Blok joins Follow-Me from his previous position as support and application specialist at ELC/Green-GO, where he provided advanced global support, training and technical sales assistance. He played a critical role in strengthening R&D efforts with his practical technical expertise, while also serving as a key support figure for distributors and customers across major trade shows. Prior to his tenure at ELC/Green-GO, Blok spent 12 years as a system engineer at Ampco-Flashlight Rental, contributing to high-profile projects such as the Eurovision Song Contest 2018, Pinkpop Festival, and Tiësto’s Elements of Life World Tour.

"I’m excited to be joining Follow-Me, a company that shares my passion for constantly improving the technician’s experience with its innovative products,” says Blok. “As soon as I realised that Erik [Berends, technical director and co-founder, Follow-Me] and the rest of the company had that same drive to constantly be better, I was sure this was the company to take my next step into. With my field experience and technical background, I look forward to supporting Follow-Me’s customers and helping the company continue to grow.”

In his new role, Blok will serve as a technical bridge between Follow-Me’s development team and its customers, providing in-depth technical support and troubleshooting for system installations, commissioning and on-site integrations. His extensive hands-on experience will be crucial in helping customers achieve smooth system deployments and solve complex technical challenges.

Blok’s responsibilities will also include assisting the sales team by providing detailed technical input and supporting customer inquiries, from project design through to implementation. He will leverage his deep understanding of live production environments to assist customers in identifying optimal solutions for their technical needs.

"We are thrilled to welcome Henk-Jan to the Follow-Me team. His vast industry experience and technical expertise make him a perfect fit for this role," says Marc van der Wel, managing director of Follow-Me. "Henk-Jan will play a pivotal role in many customer-facing activities, helping our users with the technical integration and application of Follow-Me products in their projects."

Henk-jan Blok will be available for meetings at Follow-Me’s booth 6G440 at ISE 2025 in Barcelona, where he will be engaging with industry professionals and sharing his insights into the latest advancements in follow-spot technology.

“I’m getting to know the product in every possible aspect,” Blok concludes. “There are upcoming installs that will probably require my assistance soon, either digitally or in-person, but for now I’m looking forward to ISE and meeting my industry contacts again in my new role.”

31st January 2025

Power Logistics begins 25th year in business with three key appointments to its Board of Directors

Power Logistics begins 25th year in business with three key appointments to its Board of Directors

As global temporary power specialist Power Logistics begins its 25th year in business, it has made three key appointments to its board of directors. Joining co-founders Beverly and Pete Wills on its board are Angela Rice, Ian Peniston and Nicola Glendinning.

Angela Rice, who joined the company in May 2023 with a wealth of SME financial experience, has been appointed finance director, overseeing the accounting function as well as driving financial planning, reporting and strategy within the business.

Ian Peniston takes up the position of director of operations heading up the project management, innovation and sustainability development, logistics, engineering, and mechanical and electrical divisions. Ian started his Power Logistics journey as a sub-contractor then joining the team as a project manager in 2011 more recently joining the senior management team in 2021. He has taken the lead in the company’s most high-profile projects including HM The Queen’s Funeral, HM The King’s Coronation and instigated the innovative, sustainable approach for global electric motorsport events.

Nicola Glendinning has been appointed director of commercial and corporate affairs and will be responsible for maintaining and managing commercial relationships with both suppliers and clients, as well as ensuring the processes and procedures, that guarantee the smooth running of the business, continue and flourish. Nicola joined Power Logistics in 2011 and during her time with the company has been instrumental in implementing a robust CRM system and taking the lead on securing its ISO 9001 certification.

Commenting on their appointment to the board of directors, Angela, Ian and Nicola said: “2025 is set to be a strong year for Power Logistics, with a celebration planned to mark our 25th anniversary and a packed calendar of events that includes both new and repeat projects. We’re committed to driving forward a focussed approach to sustainability which will see announcements about a practical, meaningful and robust framework for both our internal operations and client delivery.

“We’re excited to join the Board as the company celebrates this important milestone.  We will ensure that our core values remain at the heart of everything we do as we look to drive the business forward for its next 25 years!"

In picture: Ian Peniston, Angela Rice and Nicola Glendinning.

29th January 2025

Ingo Dombrowski Retires from Robe after 21 years

Ingo Dombrowski Retires from Robe after 21 years

Czech Republic - After 21 “brilliant” years working with Czech lighting and LED manufacturer Robe s.r.o., outgoing global sales director Ingo Dombrowski will step away from the business and retire from active duties at the end of 2025.

Ingo joined Robe in 2004 initially as business development manager, then became a key account manager for Europe helping to manage a period of rapid growth for the company which saw it jump from being the aspiring ‘new kid in the block’ to a global market leader in moving light and LED technology. “It’s been an absolutely incredible journey,” Ingo stated, “and I am very proud to have played a part in Robe’s incredible ascendency.”

After the end of 2025, Ingo will be re-defining his work-life balance and focusing on sailing, cycling, spending time with his family and grandchildren plus the many other activities he enjoys.

Meantime, Ingo’s handover to Michel Arntz who takes over the global sales director mantle for The Robe Group, has already taken place over the past year.

Josef Valchar, Robe s.r.o’s  CEO, commented: “We will miss Ingo enormously! His knowledge, experience, technical acumen and passion for the job have been of huge value and a vital contributor to Robe’s success.

“Apart from that, his character, humanity and balanced and fair outlook on life have been as inspiring as his commitment to finding innovative solutions to help keep us ahead of the curve. And let’s not forget his killer dancefloor moves!”

Ingo has been in the entertainment / production industry all his professional life.

“A bit nerdy” by his own admission, Ingo’s interest in lighting and all things technical started early when he chose community services over army conscription in Hannover, Germany, during the 1970s. He simultaneously founded his own company, id technik, specialising in installing lighting and sound systems for clubs, as the disco scene was exploding at the time and that’s where all the action and fun was!

After 15 years of disco craziness, it was time to find a new but related direction. In the early 1990s Ingo joined what was then Martin Germany, and after a stint there, another well-known distributor, LightPower GmbH, to focus on boosting their nationwide lighting and technical sales campaigns.

Ingo’s ambitions of expanding his horizons, expertise and skills beyond Germany led to the opportunity with Robe. A main achievement during these 21 busy years was helping build Robe’s stable and dynamic global distribution network:

“Ever since high school, I had wanted to explore the world and Robe was a fantastic opportunity to achieve this goal and learn new things every day, embracing and discovering how business and relationships function and flourish in many new and different cultures. There was never a dull moment! I have relished every element of this journey, including Robe’s ‘people-first’ philosophies.

“Having the freedom and trust invested in me to help develop Robe’s business worldwide is truly appreciated. Robe is a special company. We have been able to think laterally, in our own ways and create original solutions using imagination, innovation and a smart approach.”

Ingo was “honoured” to be offered the global sales director role in 2022 as a high point on which to end his professional career. Having already announced his retirement plan, this dovetailed perfectly to the timeframe.

For the rest of 2025, Ingo will be collaborating with Tony Perez who leads Robe’s Maritime division, working as his European counterpart in the specialist cruise ship sector. He also hints that there may be some consultancy projects on the table in the future, so he may ‘pop up’ now and again!

“Ingo will always be part of our family,” commented Josef, “It will be ‘see you later’ at the end of the year. We thank him for the hard work and great energy, intelligence and insights he has brought to us and wish him well with everything ahead.”

photo: courtesy Ingo Dombrowski + Robe lighting s.r.o.

24th January 2025

Astera Welcomes New Head of Sales Agata Birn

Astera Welcomes New Head of Sales Agata Birn

Astera, a leading developer of innovative lighting solutions for film and events, has announced Agata Birn as the company’s new head of sales.

Agata Birn brings over 12 years of experience in international business development and distribution strategy. With a proven track record of handling motion picture equipment, including four years as international sales and business development manager at DoPchoice, Agata Birn is positioned to help strengthen Astera’s international relationships and streamline the customer experience.

Welcoming Agata Birn, chief sales officer Sebastian Bückle commented: “Agata’s extensive expertise and dynamic approach make her an outstanding addition to our team. Her leadership will undoubtedly help us serve the film and event communities.”

In her new role, Birn will oversee Astera’s global sales strategy, while delivering exceptional service to its existing partners, clients and customers. She will also focus on forging strategic partnerships, optimising distribution networks, and identifying opportunities in new and emerging sectors of the entertainment production industry.

21st January 2025

Rob Hofkamp Joins Funktion-One as Business Development Consultant, US

Rob Hofkamp Joins Funktion-One as Business Development Consultant, US

USA – Loudspeaker manufacturer Funktion-One has announced the appointment of Rob Hofkamp as business development consultant for the United States. With nearly four decades of experience in the professional audio industry, Hofkamp brings a wealth of expertise in brand development, marketing and commercial audio integration.

Hofkamp began his pro audio career in 1984. His extensive experience spans the recording studio sector, commercial audio and live sound, making him an invaluable asset to Funktion-One’s growing presence in North America.

“Over the years in the pro audio industry, I have had great respect for the products that Tony Andrews has created, and the opportunity to work with Tony and Ann was my first choice,” said Hofkamp. “I believe the superior design and sonic performance of Funktion-One products have already achieved excellent results in North America, and we are focused on expanding our professional dealer network to further elevate the brand.”

Funktion-One's Ann Andrews expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership, stating: “Rob's extensive experience and deep understanding of the industry align perfectly with our mission to deliver exceptional audio experiences. His expertise in business development and strategic growth will be instrumental in strengthening our position in the US market.”

Hofkamp will spearhead Funktion-One's initiatives to enhance brand visibility, expand partnerships and develop new market opportunities across the United States. His leadership will support Funktion-One's commitment to delivering world-class sound reinforcement solutions to a broad spectrum of applications.

Hofkamp will represent Funktion-One at Namm Show on 23-25 January (Stand 17304) before travelling to Europe for ISE 2025 in Spain on 4-7 February.

21st January 2025

At its recent AGM The Association for Lighting Production and Design (ALPD) has announced that Rick Fisher will be its new President.

At its recent AGM The Association for Lighting Production and Design (ALPD) has announced that Rick Fisher will be its new President.

UK – Rick has been a lighting designer working in the UK and around the world since the 80s. He is a Fellow of the ALPD and previously a chair and vice president of the ALPD. 

Rick is founding trustee of Backup Tech, an industry charity, also a committee member of Showlight 2025 and a former board member of the United Scenic Artists in the USA. Rick has been honoured with numerous awards for his work around the world such as: Olivier, Tony, Drama Desk, Ovation and Helpmann awards as well as the Enrico Caironi award for Lifetime Achievement.

Rick said: “I am honoured to follow the esteemed and inspiring Richard Pilbrow as president of the ALPD. Richard set us all the challenge to keep this organisation, that he helped to found, relevant to the ever-changing needs of our membership which include all who are passionate about lighting.

Those colleagues who gathered for the occasional Rules lunches could never have imagined the growth and vibrancy of the lighting community over the past 60 years leading to the use of our skills and creativity in so many areas.

The ALPD continues to be an essential resource for us all. I am very much looking forward to working with our membership and our hard-working executive to continue to welcome new members, and to find new ways to support and promote all of us involved and passionate about lighting.”

The ALPD also welcomes two new directors to its board: Vic Pyne, head of lighting at Glyndebourne and Matt Drury, head of lighting at the National Theatre.

Vic Pyne has been working in the lighting industry for almost 30 years, starting out at Liverpool Everyman Theatre in the mid 90s with no experience, just determination and a burning desire to run up and down ladders carrying heavy lights! Over the years she has held many positions from assistant lighting technician to deputy head of lighting in venues such as Scottish Opera, Glyndebourne, Theatr Clwyd and Manchester Royal Exchange. Then, for most of the 2000s she worked across the globe as freelance associate LD, relighter and programmer, whilst at the same time heading up the lighting team at Garsington Opera. After taking up post as deputy head of lighting at ENO in 2007, she finally returned to Glyndebourne Opera nine years later as head of lighting. She lives in East Sussex with husband and son, and a variety of unruly animals.

Matt Drury trained at the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain and the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.  Matt has been working in the lighting profession for over 30 years, in a variety of roles as a lighting technician, in both a regional and freelance capacity, a lighting designer for over 70 professional theatre productions and corporate events and a lighting tutor at both RADA and LAMDA, as well as previously being LAMDA’s technical director.

Matt is a member of the ALPD Wellbeing working group, a previous mentor on the International Fred Foster Mentorship Programme for ETC, as well as involvement with the Save Stage Lighting/Ecodesign campaign and an early contributor to the Theatre Green Book. He is also a member of the ABTT.

Matt was the former head of lighting at the Royal Court Theatre and is currently the head of lighting at the National Theatre.

At its recent AGM The Association for Lighting Production and Design (ALPD) has announced that Rick Fisher will be its new President.At its recent AGM The Association for Lighting Production and Design (ALPD) has announced that Rick Fisher will be its new President.

17th January 2025

Mark Ravenhill joins GLP in director role

Mark Ravenhill joins GLP in director role

USA – GLP has announced the appointment of Mark Ravenhill to the board of directors of the GLP Group.

Mark will form part of the executive leadership of the company, adding focus to its relationships within the global design community while addressing their future product requirements. Based in the US city of Nashville, Mark will also lead the sales and marketing of the GLP US subsidiary.

GLP managing director Udo Kunzler comments: "I am excited to have Mark join our executive leadership. We know him well, of course and he brings a great level of knowledge and experience with him."

Ravenhill adds: "I am looking forward to re-joining the company in this expanded role. GLP has a strong reputation for product innovation and creative solutions which I look forward to being a continuing part of. These are exciting times, with many opportunities."

www.glp.de

16th January 2025

GLP

Peter E. Schmitt Co. New Elation Rep in the Northeastern USA, Including the Influential New York City Area and New England

Peter E. Schmitt Co. New Elation Rep in the Northeastern USA, Including the Influential New York City Area and New England

USA – Elation has announced that Peter E. Schmitt Co. (PES), a leading independent rep firm in the entertainment technology industry, has been named the new representative of Elation products in the Northeastern USA, including the influential New York City area and New England. The partnership includes the Obsidian Control Systems and Magmatic atmospheric effects lines.

Located in northern New Jersey, just west of New York City, PES delivers top-quality lighting solutions to a wide array of clients. Operational since 1926, and now in its fourth generation of ownership, PES is not only well-established but also one of the most respected in the north-east, known for its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The company has served as a representative for the Elation brands since 1 December 2024.

To support the new partnership, PES announced the hiring of James Suit as sales manager – lighting, a key addition that will be instrumental in enhancing its ability to serve Elation’s discerning customers. With over two decades of experience in entertainment and architectural lighting, James brings a wealth of technical expertise and a proven track record of customer-centric service to his new role. He will be responsible for overseeing the entire PES Elation territory.

James began his new position on 2 January, 2025 and his hiring is expected to have a significant impact on PES’s continued growth and success in representing Elation’s cutting-edge lighting solutions. Over the course of his career, James has held positions ranging from lighting technician to sales manager, where he built a reputation for putting clients first and thoroughly understanding their needs. With a deep understanding of both the technical and creative sides of the industry, his proficiency and ability to communicate complex concepts have allowed him to forge lasting relationships with designers, manufacturers, and production companies across the lighting industry.

Frank Conway, vice president at PES, expressed excitement about James’s hiring, emphasising that PES is poised to provide exceptional support and service across the entire Elation product line. “We are proud to represent Elation’s innovative lighting solutions for entertainment and architectural applications and are thrilled to have James join the PES team,” stated Frank Conway, vice president at PES. “His deep industry knowledge and client-first approach align perfectly with our values and mission at PES. James’s experience and passion for lighting make him a perfect fit to support the Elation territory and continue our tradition of building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We look forward to seeing the positive impact he’ll have on both PES and the entire Elation community.” 

10th January 2025