Peoplewatch

Signagelive has announced the promotion of Frank Larsen to Chief Commercial Officer. Frank will lead the company’s global sales and marketing teams. He brings over 30 years of experience in the digital signage and AV industry and joined Signagelive in October 2022 to head up EMEA sales.

Frank will report to Jason Cremins, Signagelive’s Founder and CEO. “Frank has made a significant positive impact on our EMEA commercial strategy and growth since joining last year. I cannot think of a better person to lead our global sales and marketing organisation as we strive to replicate our accelerated EMEA growth in North America and Asia,” said Jason Cremins, CEO of Signagelive. “With Frank as our CCO, we will establish a global framework to deliver our current and future objectives, with local execution by our expanding commercial team and our network of partners” global sustainability practices, as well as supporting the company’s mission to promote the use of light as illumination and energy to support human well-being and societal growth.

“I am excited about the opportunity of leading these amazing sales and marketing teams. I am impressed with the company culture, the flexibility and security of the software. I look forward to working with the teams to grow the business even further with our partners” said Frank.Frank Larsen holds a Master's in Business Administration with distinction from Henley Business School in 2022.

Signagelive has announced the promotion of Frank Larsen to Chief Commercial Officer.

“Constant innovation and deep core values, while making a difference in the communities we serve, are paramount to Ushio’s vision to a sustainable future for everyone,” says Koji Naito, chairman and chief executive officer, Christie. “I am pleased and honoured to lead Christie into the future with a strong executive management team who shares Ushio’s mission and vision.”

1Digital Projection has announced the appointment of James Belso as regional sales manager for the UK and Ireland. The appointment is the latest in an extensive recruitment programme centred on growth in the EMEA region. In his new role, Belso will be tasked with further developing the company’s business through a select network of new and existing partners.

Reporting to Matt Horwood, Digital Projection’s EMEA director of sales, Belso will play a key role in identifying and serving the market pride ourselves on fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and excellence and James shares these values wholeheartedly. We are truly excited to have him on board.”

Sony Europe B.V. has announced the appointment of a new Head of Professional Displays and Solutions - Rik Willemse is part of a new era for the business.

Rik was previously Head of Sales for Professional Displays and Solutions Europe and has a long 20-year history within the company in various marketing, sales, business development and regional management roles. He has the knowledge and experience to drive the division forward into a new era, and to connect customers with Sony’s best products and solutions.

Commenting on his new role, Rik said: “Sony is one of the most recognisable brands in the world, and its professional displays offering is one of the best on the market. The AV industry is moving into a new era of change where manufacturers are not only providing products for customers, but also integrating with software and complementing hardware partners to create connected experiences for all.

I’m excited to further cement our position as the preferred partner for solutions and partnerships, to help drive the continued growth of the business group and development of innovative solutions across our well-established markets including corporate, education and retail.”

He continued, “working in the Professional Displays and Solutions team, I’ve seen how dedicated everyone is. It is a huge privilege to head up a team of industry-leading experts with a history of success and a great deal of passion. With such a great team behind me, I’m sure there will be plenty more years of success ahead!”

Ushio Inc, parent company to Christie has announced the appointment of Koji Naito as the new chairman and CEO of Christie Digital Systems, globally. Koji currently holds the position of president and chief executive officer for Japan’s Ushio Inc. Effective April 1, Koji Koji will oversee both companies. Koji succeeds Hideaki Onishi, who will transition into a new role as Christie’s president and chief operating officer. In addition, Atsushi Kuroda, formerly of Sharp NEC Display Solutions Ltd, and currently senior director of Christie’s Strategy Office, has been appointed Christie’s chief technology officer and chief strategy officer, succeeding Zoran Veselic, president and CTO. Having held progressively responsible positions at Ushio for nearly four decades, Koji brings strong leadership, industry-wide experience and credibility to Christie. As a business leader, Koji is inspired to align Ushio and Christie’s management, business strategies, and philosophies to drive success. He places significant emphasis on understanding customers’ needs and taking further action to achieve needs for advanced display technologies for a range of applications. Ensuring a seamless experience and associated local support that customers have come to expect with Digital Projection. Working closely with Digital Projection’s Simon Hutchinson in the UK, Belso will help further boost the rapidly increasing brand awareness of the UK manufacturer in the region by utilising his customer network and extensive industry experience.

Belso, a Pro-AV veteran, brings over 22 years of experience to his new role. His most recent position as commercial director at UK distributor Visualization Ltd saw him successfully set up a new hardware sales side of the business, demonstrating his ability to drive demand and growth: “My extensive experience in the pro-AV industry, particularly with projection, will be a major asset in my new role at Digital Projection,” he comments. “I am excited to join such an innovative company, from pioneering technology like Satellite MLS (Modular Laser System) to delivering great pre- and post-sales customer support from their UK headquarters”, enthuses Belso. “I was particularly drawn to the company because of its ability to push the boundaries of development, delivering cutting-edge products and solutions that are always at the forefront of the industry.”

Belso is particularly enthusiastic about Digital Projection’s reputation in the industry: “The company strikes the perfect balance between being big enough to compete with all the other top brands, whilst managing to remain true to their values of customer care, providing support and attention every step of the way.”

Belso’s industry background includes several senior sales roles at major display manufacturers. “Having worked with vendors, distributors, and system integrators, I have developed a deep understanding of the industry's needs and challenges. I look forward to leveraging this knowledge to help drive growth and innovation at Digital Projection,” Belso continues. “Digital Projection is a great cultural fit for me,” he concludes. “I am inspired by its human approach and commitment to the industry, and I am looking forward to contribute towards the company’s continued success with the team.”

Digital Projection’s Matt Horwood comments: “We are thrilled to welcome James to our team. His appointment will bring significant value to our company and our customers. What sets James apart is his alignment with both our company’s and customer’s values. We

The appointment comes as part of wider management changes within Sony Europe, including the introduction of a new Sony Europe President, Masashi Takiguchi. Damien Weissenburger, outgoing Head of Professional Displays and Solutions, after 12 years in the role will head up Sony Europe’s Specialised B2B Business unit. On the changes he comments “This is an exciting time for Professional Displays and Solutions, Rik is perfectly placed to guide the team forward in its continued and growing success. Personally, I’m excited to lead Sony’s Life Science and Image Sensing Solutions businesses and continue its expansion with a highly knowledgeable and professional team.”

Sony Europe B.V. has announced the appointment of a new Head of Professional Displays and Solutions - Rik Willemse is part of a new era for the business.

The Trusted Partner Network (TPN), a global, industry-wide content security initiative and community network fully owned by the Motion Picture Association (MPA), has welcomed Kari Grubin, a veteran entertainment and media operations executive, as Membership Services Director. A recognized expert in technology and post-production services, Grubin will help grow the TPN program and TPN+ platform for security preparedness and enhanced awareness of content security best practices at all stages of content development in the digital media supply chain. She also will leverage more than 20 years of industry and consultative expertise to support TPN member needs.

Based in Los Angeles and reporting to Terri Davies, President of TPN, Grubin currently serves on the board of the Hollywood Production Association (HPA) and is project director of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers’ Rapid Industry Solutions On Set Virtual Production Initiative. Earlier in her career, she was Vice President of Mastering at Walt Disney Studios and served as Vice President of Post and Restoration at Deluxe Media Services.

Grubin also contributes to numerous efforts to expand opportunities for underrepresented communities in the media and entertainment industry.

“I am thrilled to welcome Kari to the TPN team. Her experience, personal vision, insights, and shared goals for content security are a perfect complement to her dedication to an ever-evolving content, technology, and media landscape,” said Davies. ”As we collaborate with industry stakeholders, including Content Owners, Service Providers, and our Assessor Partners, Kari’s industry know-how and energy will be a tremendous addition to the TPN team as we continue to build a secure future and source of truth for our content partners.”

“As the definition of content expands and technology tools leveraging artificial intelligence and virtualized workflows grow, the creative community needs access to resources and best practices to protect the intellectual property in their care,” said Grubin. “I look forward to partnering with and advocating for TPN members, providing support and guidance as they navigate these exciting and complex challenges.”

The Trusted Partner Network (TPN), owned by the Motion Picture Association (MPA), is pleased to welcome Kari Grubin, a veteran entertainment and media operations executive, as Membership Services Director.

“We are excited to have Mark join the Nice team,” said Jeff Costello, VP of Control Sales at Nice North America. “His extensive experience and proven success in the smart home and automation industry make him the perfect fit for our company as we continue to grow and expand our reach.”

“I am thrilled to join the team at Nice North America and am eager to continue to build upon my relationships with the partners I’ve known for many years,” said Mark Ohlwiler, Regional Sales Manager at Nice North America. “I also look forward to the challenge of growing the business and forging new relationships as we accelerate sales in the region. For me, the journey is not just in selling products, but rather, it’s about building the Nice brand and being a valued partner to grow our businesses together.” most recent role as Senior Sales Manager at IHSE.

Mark has already hit the ground running by attracting several key dealers in California and continues to generate excitement and support around the convergence of Nice/ELAN, Nice / Speaker Craft, and Panamax to form a single home automation solution.

Nice North America has announced the appointment of as the new Regional Sales Manager in the West region.

“I'm very excited to join the team at VuWall. They're a reputable market leader with an excellent product offering and a fantastic culture,” said Mezquita. “The company is continuously growing with great potential to expand into new sectors and markets. I am honoured to have the chance to fully utilize my skills and experience to help the company rise to its next level of growth and recognition.”

PPDS has announced the latest high-profile addition to its ever-growing North American team, with the appointment of Megan Lipinczyk who joins as Channel Marketing Manager. Based in Tampa, and reporting to fellow Floridian and former colleague, Alison Maxson, Senior Marketing Manager at PPDS, Megan has quickly established herself as one of the AV industry’s leading and sought-after marketing talents in the North American market, during a successful four-year career.

Nice North America has announced the appointment of Mark Ohlwiler as the new Regional Sales Manager in the West region. Mark brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the consumer electronics industry, having worked with esteemed companies such as Bang & Olufsen, Sonance, Pioneer Electronics, Control4, and Snap One.

Mark began his career in consumer electronics selling Mitsubishi rear screen projection TVs and, since then, has held various positions, including most recently as Regional Sales Manager at Control4. In that role, under Mark's leadership, his region consistently produced the highest revenue, and that trend is expected to continue at Nice as he immediately begins growing new accounts and expanding revenue opportunities. Some of Mark's standout accomplishments include being a CEDIA Outreach Instructor and awarded as the Control4 North America Regional Sales Manager of the Year. He played a significant role in the revenue growth and success of Control4 and Snap One, contributing to both companies becoming public entities.

Mark's skill set includes professional sales, product training, managing sales teams, managing custom AV installation teams, project management, operations management, and system design. As Regional Sales Manager at Nice, Mark will be responsible for developing the territory, driving revenue, obtaining and developing new partners and dealers, building the Nice brand, providing outstanding partner support, and serving as an ambassador for the organization. Mark will also be instrumental in building relationships with builders, developers, architects, and influencers by utilizing his 30+ years of industry experience.

VuWall has announced the appointment of Oscar Mezquita as its new Senior International Sales Manager. In this role, he will help increase market share and brand awareness internationally with VuWall's integration partners, resellers, and consultants in AV, IT, and security to drive the broader expansion. Mezquita will focus primarily on Eastern and Southern Europe.

“We are experiencing an increased demand for video wall solutions in the European market, and it is important for us to invest in the right resources to help better serve this region,” said Eric Hénique, Executive Vice President of Sales at VuWall. “Oscar brings a deep fluency and understanding of the EU market, with a proven track record of success throughout his career. His technical background,

With an enviable CV and impeccable track record increasing productivity and profitability for some of the world’s leading AV/IT organisations, including Microsoft, Megan brings a wealth of experience, additional skillsets and fresh ideas for this important new role. Described as ‘true team player’ by current and former colleagues – harnessed, in part, from her days as a Division 1 Women’s Softball player at the University of Kentucky – Megan’s key responsibilities at PPDS will center around driving greater awareness of the PPDS brand and its evolving solutions, while increasing demand and revenue opportunities through the channel and with its valued partners. Working in collaboration with PPDS’ national and regional team, her day-to-day duties will include, but are not limited to, developing and executing comprehensive channel marketing plans and programs, and overseeing joint marketing campaigns, promotions and trade shows. Added to this she will manage and maintain strong relationships in the channel to identify opportunities to drive growth and success across all key market verticals and solutions, key to PPDS’ continued growth in North America. This includes corporate, hospitality, retail and education, in which Megan has extensive experience, working as an educator for more than 11 years prior to her AV career.

Commenting on her new role at PPDS, Megan said: “I’m excited to have joined PPDS, and to be embarking on the next phase and challenge in my career as the company’s Channel Marketing Manager for North America. PPDS is a company that continues to gain momentum in North America, delivering high quality, highly innovative, dedicated solutions that truly validate its ethos of leading from the front. I'm looking forward to contributing to its success, working with and learning from the team, developing and executing engaging marketing strategies that will enable our partners to thrive.”

Nick Begleries, Commercial VP, North America at PPDS, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Megan to our growing North America team. Her knowledge and experience will not only help to support and accelerate our efforts in taking our marketing to even greater heights here in North America, they will also help to support and inspire PPDS teams around the world. As we make ready for shows that include NAB and InfoComm, Megan has already shown what an incredible asset she is to the team and, on behalf of everyone at PPDS, I wish her every success.” skill for building business, and professionalism are valuable assets to both VuWall and our customers.”

PPDS further strengthens North America team with appointment of Megan Lipinczyk as Channel Marketing Manager.

Mezquita holds dual master's degrees in telecommunications engi neering from the technical university in Valencia, Spain and Turin, Italy, and in business administration from the Humanistic University of Madrid. A skilled communicator, he speaks fluently in Spanish, Italian, German, and English. Based out of VuWall's office in Reutlingen, Germany, Mezquita will report to Hénique. Prior to his new role at VuWall, Mezquita worked for more than 20 years in medium and large-sized organizations in the broadcast, pro AV, and telecommunications markets. He previously served as Project Manager at Deutsche Telekom and as an International Sales Manager for Riedel Communications and the Vitec Group. He comes to VuWall after his