UK Mentees and Mentors 2026
About The Rise AV Mentoring Programme
The Rise AV Mentoring Programme is a free, six-month initiative designed to support and empower women in the AV, live events, and production technology sectors.
Open to individuals at all career stages, the programme offers one-on-one mentorship, specialised training, networking opportunities, and community support to help participants grow professionally and personally.
This transformative experience is made possible thanks to the generous support of our industry sponsors, whose commitment enables us to deliver the programme free of charge.
UK Mentees 2026
Alannah-Jade Manley
Diversified, Customer Success Manager, EMEA
I am a customer focused professional with a number of years experience in the AV industry, with a passion for delivering successful client outcomes. My career has been centred on customer success, building strong relationships and supporting clients post-delivery. I'm wanting to develop my confidence, enhancing my skills and progressing my long-term career within AV.
MENTOR: Hannah Sharma, Previously at Exertis, Sales and Commercial Director
Amber Jones
Audiologic, Application Support Engineer
I am an Application Support Engineer in AV, passionate about designing and supporting innovative projects across education, corporate, and hospitality. With a background in audio production, I am dedicated to developing my technical expertise and confidence, while championing women in AV and helping make the industry more inclusive.
MENTOR: Chris White, Turtle AV, EU Territory Manager
Amy Oxley
OneTwo, Prep Technician
I am just starting off my professional career in the AV industry. My biggest strength is working with lighting equipment to create a unique and exciting event. I am striving to diversify my skills and work to develop a deeper understanding of various principles as well as meeting like-minded people.
MENTOR: Clark Henry-Brown, Charcoal Blue, Associate
Anna North
Lightware, Partner Account Manager
After 10 successful years as an IT Channel Account Manager, I’m excited to be transitioning into the AV industry. As I take on this new challenge I’m seeking a mentor to provide insight, honest feedback, and guidance whilst helping me broaden my network and accelerate my professional growth
MENTOR: Neil Spackman, AVI-SPL, Regional Service Director - International
Binita Wilton
Hire frequencies, Account Manager
Im an AV professional specialising in film, television, and advertising, with a background that combines creative production and sales. I thrive in fast-paced, content-driven environments, translating creative ideas into commercially successful outcomes while maintaining high production standards across all platforms.
MENTOR: Darren Pitt, CTI, VP of EMEA
Charlie Snuggs
Merlin Entertainments, Audio Visual Technician
Charlie currently works at the London Eye as the Audio Visual Technician, ensuring all AV aspects are maintained and working. She has been working in tech for most of her career within museums such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and The British Museum. She is focused on developing her career in AV installation and project management.
MENTOR: Emma Bigg, TAD, Project Manager
Charlotte Troak
Diversified, Project Manager
I have over a decade of experience having been in the AV industry since 2013. I am at a pivotal point in my career and am dedicated to advancing my project management skills. Through the Rise AV programme I am seeking a mentor to share their industry insights and experiences, help navigate increased responsibilities and building my confidence.
MENTOR: Wayne Mason, Neat, VP of Global Distribution & Programs / AVP UK&I
Claire Holmes
Daktronics, Account Service Manager
I am 32 years old, originally from Cape Town, South Africa and have been living and working in the UK for almost 4 years now. I started my career as a music teacher, but this took a turn around 2020, changing my career path toward more customer service roles. I currently work as an Account Service Manager for a company that designs and manufactures industry-leading LED video displays and audio-visual systems. Off the clock you can find me on the hockey field, devouring a book, or taking my pooch for a stroll in the park.
MENTOR: Tim Hoddy, VP Sales Director, Uniguest
Courtney Trott
MVS Audio Visual, Head of Procurement and Logistics
By day, you'll find me negotiating the best prices and building connections at supplier events. Off the clock, I'm discovering new foodie hotspots for my Instagram, chasing bold flavors across the city, and logging fresh running miles on Strava.
MENTOR: Jane Hammersley, Blue Touch Paper, Owner
Devon Porter
JP Show Systems, Systems Design & Commissioning Specialist
A detail focused design & control systems engineer who plays a key role in delivering technically accurate, build ready documentation and programming. She supports design and delivery phases with precision, ensuring AV and control systems are properly specified, coordinated, and ready for installation across theme parks, exhibitions, and visitor attractions.
MENTOR: Glynn Hughes, Diversified, Technical Lead, Major Projects
Eleanor Clapp
7thSense, Product Engineer
I am a Product Engineer specialising in hardware development, delivery and process improvement. Combining a background in Market Research with technical expertise, I translate technical challenges into effective solutions, streamline development processes, and design systems that optimise processes for efficient, reliable delivery.
MENTOR: Chris Wintle-Camp, Aura Futures, Service Director
Elizabeth Houghton
OneTwo Agency, Junior AV Technician
I am a musician and an AV Technician, with a passion for learning the behind-the-scenes of any live events. I love being part of the entire operation from start to finish, including the planning, management, production, operation and lastly the discussion of how to improve the event for next time.
MENTOR: James Quinton, Blacktip Consultancy, AV Director
Emma Pieper
Kinly, Account Manager
Im an AV Account Manager with 10 years industry experience, currently at Kinly, partnering with global clients to turn technical challenges into practical, people-friendly solutions. Curious, ambitious, and relationship-driven, I'm excited by career progression, sales leadership, and helping shape a more diverse, inclusive future for the AV industry worldwide today.
MENTOR: Daniel Lee, Hewshott, Managing Director
Harley Willmott
Midwich Ltd, Product Manager- Logitech & Lenovo UC&C
A driven Product Manager at Midwich with experience across credit, sales, and vendor management. Working within the AV and UC channel, I manage Lenovo and Logitech video conferencing products, overseeing commercials, pricing, stock, and market activity. Passionate about learning and progression, I'm focused on growing my expertise and delivering strong results.
MENTOR: Teymour Mossadeghi, Kinly, Director Service Architecture - Global Services
Helen Stokes-Bellamy
Q-SYS, Business Development Manager
Helen enjoys building genuine relationships and learning from others, always bringing energy and enthusiasm to her workplace. She is curious, people focused and driven by continuous development. Helen is looking to build confidence, and find her place in the AV industry, while contributing positively to the wider community and ensuring accessibility for everyone.
MENTOR: Daryl Clarke, Workplace Vision, CCO & Chairman
Jessie Bailey
CTI, Design Consultant
As a seasoned professional with a background in Audio Visual Project Management, I've seamlessly transitioned into the role of a Business Development Manager. My passion lies in creating synergies, fostering relationships, and driving growth within the dynamic world of experiential technology.
MENTOR: Tom Halards, Jabra, Global GTM Lead
Jodie Hill
Sennheiser UK, Regional Marketing Manager | UK & Nordics
Working in marketing at Sennheiser, I specialise in project management, B2B marketing for business communications, and supporting major industry events. With nearly seven years of experience in the AV industry, I’m passionate about developing impactful marketing initiatives and expanding my industry knowledge. I enjoy collaborating with others and bringing creative ideas to life.
MENTOR: James Keen, Uniguest, Executive VP of Marketing
Kim Owen
Diversified, Logistics Manager
Kim Owen is a Logistics Manager within the AV integration industry, specialising in complex, time-critical, and high-value deliveries within the UK and internationally. With a hands-on, solutions-driven approach, she is passionate about continuous improvement, collaboration, and supporting the development of others within the industry.
MENTOR: Andy Atwell, RGB Communications, Managing Director
Kokui Agbenu
SMART Technologies, Sales Development Support
I'm a technology-focused professional with a background in customer operations and process improvement within the edtech sector. Currently expanding my expertise in cybersecurity and governance, risk, and compliance. I have a strong interest in bridging user-centricity and technical demands to create more efficient, secure, and user-centric technological experiences.
MENTOR: Kennie Cole, Kinly, Global Account Director
Laura Davidson
Audiologic, Internal Business Manager
Laura is an Internal Business Manager at a B2B AV distributor, with a background in audio production and post-production. After moving into AV by accident, she's built a strong reputation for organisation, relationship management, and keeping complex things running smoothly. She's keen to build a clear, sustainable career path within AV.
MENTOR: Lisa Yates, BenQ, Sales Director
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Laura (Lou) Dixon-Wilkinson (Stevens)
Siyan Ltd, Operations Manager
As Operations manager at Siyan, i have a varied skill set to help efficiently deliver high quality AV solutions for a wide variety of live events. I am keen to continue to upskill myself and strive to make working in live events attainable to everyone. In my spare time you will find me running.
MENTOR: Vanessa Kennedy, Sharp Displays Solutions, Senior Sales Manager, Global Business
Lauren Fielder
GVAV, Marketing Assistant
Hi, I’m Lauren, Marketing Assistant for leading UK AV integrator, GVAV 👋 I’m passionate about creative marketing, brand storytelling, and developing my career within the AV industry. I’m excited to continue learning and building my industry knowledge whilst connecting with other women shaping the future of AV!
MENTOR: Erica Whittle, Sennheiser, Global Alliances Marketing Manager
Leah Harman
AVM / Northamber, Product Manager
I'm a Product Manager at AV distributor Audio Visual Material Ltd, with a background in sales and IT distribution. I'm passionate about product strategy and innovation, and currently focused on expanding my industry knowledge, building confidence, and progressing toward a senior leadership role within the AV sector.
MENTOR: Sanjit Hurst, Diversified, Global Procurement Director
Marnie Woodford-Venables
FOCUSRITE, Sustainability Assistant
Marnie Woodford-Venables is a Sustainability Assistant at Focusrite Group, supporting ESG reporting, supplier engagement, and product lifecycle assessments across the AV industry. With a legal background, she is interested in developing into broader business roles, including sustainability, operations, and supply chain, while building a long term career within the AV sector.
MENTOR: Karen Horsup, Midwich Group plc, Head of Group Marketing
Mia Levitt
LED Studio, Channel Account Manager
I am a Channel Account Manager at LED Studio, working closely with resellers and channel partners to build strong relationships and drive growth. I am passionate about customer engagement and am focused on progressing into a fully external, client-facing role, becoming a trusted point of contact for my clients.
MENTOR: Danielle Williams, AVM / Northamber, Commercial Director
Rebecca Lloyd
Kinly, Global Program Director
A strategic and innovative professional with deep expertise in planning and portfolio management, adept at aligning complex elements to deliver cohesive, value‑driven outcomes. Experienced in overseeing broad portfolios of enterprise IT services, shaping actionable roadmaps, and driving the adoption of new technologies to accelerate transformation and operational efficiency.
MENTOR: Martine Dodwell-Bennett, Absen, European Sales Director
Samantha Janse van Rensburg
Clevertouch, Business Development Manager
Strong sales professional with a demonstrated history of working in the AV and IT industry. Skilled in Negotiation, Sales, Business Development, B2B Marketing and Marketing Strategy.
MENTOR: Faye Bennett, Faye Bennett Consultancy Services Ltd., Founder and Managing Director
Sara Viele
Brompton Technology, Technical Support Specialist
Every step of my career has helped me shape and tailor my AV technology within the entertainment industry. Working across several Merlin Entertainments attractions allowed me to come across a vast range of systems and implementations, which helped me land my current job as Technical Support Specialist at Brompton Technology.
MENTOR: Andrew Josephs, Experience Studios, Senior Associate
Teresa Juncosa Umaran
Kado Audiovisual, Freelance AV Consultant & Project Engineering - Director at Kado Audiovisual
Teresa Juncosa Umaran is Director of Kado Audiovisual, an independent AV design and consultancy practice. With over ten year's experience in system design and project engineering, she works across projects from early concept development through to technical delivery. Her work focuses on technically ambitious, creative installations delivered through close collaboration.
MENTOR: Dan Racoroni, Raven AV Ltd, Managing Director
UK Mentors
James Quinton
Blacktip Consultancy, AV Director
James is an AV consultant with over 20 years experience in the built environment. He has led AV and other specialists on a variety of internationally prestigious building projects for clients in a variety of sectors. James has led AV, ICT and digital teams for internationally renowned consultancy firms.
MENTEE: Elizabeth Houghton, OneTwo Agency, Junior AV Technician
Faye Bennett
Faye Bennett Consultancy Services Ltd., Founder and Managing Director
Faye Bennett is the founder and managing director of Faye Bennett Consultancy Services and is passionate about greater gender diversity in the industry. Having started her own business in 2019, Faye regularly speaks on stage, contributes thought-leadership pieces to industry publications and volunteers to support the representation of women in AV.
MENTEE: Samantha Janse van Rensburg, Clevertouch, Business Development Manager
Tim Hoddy
Uniguest, Vice President, Sales- Europe, UK&I
Tim Hoddy has been fortunate enough to ‘grow up in AV’. Holding several roles across the supply chain, including key leadership positions, Tim has over 25 years of experience and is energised to share this with our next generation of rising stars.
MENTEE: Claire Holmes, Daktronics, Account Service Manager
Glyn Hughes
Diversified, Technical Lead, Major Projects
I am a dynamic and pro-active individual who has worked in the audio visual world for the last 30 years. My background is engineering and engineering management across all disciplines (audio / video / control / media). I am pro-active and fun to work with.
MENTEE: Devon Porter, JP Show Systems, Systems Design & Commissioning Specialist
Teymour Mossadeghi
Kinly, Director Service Architecture - Global Services
As a senior executive experienced in technology, business development, operations, and building high performing teams, I offer a unique blend of strategic thinking, operational expertise, and leadership skills to guide and support mentees. My passion lies in fostering growth, promoting innovation, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. My mentorship approach focuses on practical guidance, collaborative learning, and achieving both personal and professional balance.
MENTEE: Harley Willmott, Midwich Ltd, Product Manager- Logitech & Lenovo UC&C
Erica Whittle
Sennheiser, Global Alliances Marketing Manager
Erica Whittle is Global Alliances Marketing Manager at Sennheiser, leading alliance marketing and working closely with partners to promote multi-vendor solutions across the AV and UC ecosystem. With experience across manufacturing, distribution, and integrator environments, she brings a practical, people-focused approach and is passionate about helping women find their voice and fostering connection across the AV community.
MENTEE: Lauren Fielder, GVAV, Marketing Assistant
Daniel Lee
Hewshott, Managing Director
Managing Director at Hewshott, a technology consultancy specialising in AV, IT, acoustics, smart buildings, and theatre. With a background spanning design, consultancy, and leadership, I focus on people-centred outcomes, strategic thinking, and developing the next generation of industry leaders through mentoring and collaboration.
MENTEE: Emma Pieper, Kinly, Account Manager
Neil Spackman
AVI-SPL, Regional Service Director - International
Neil Spackman is an international service leader at AVISPL, guiding diverse teams across regions to deliver consistent, high‑impact results. With deep experience in service management, strategic delivery, and people development, he is passionate about coaching future leaders and empowering individuals to grow through change, clarity, and confident decision making.
MENTEE: Anna North, Lightware, Partner Account Manager
Andrew Josephs
Experience Studios, Senior Associate
Andy has a range of experience delivering internationally renowned projects and leading the teams that make them happen across the arts, entertainment, consulting, events, and music industries. He specialises in delivering projects with complex technical requirements and precise creative visions through expert knowledge of AV systems, and collaborative relationships.
MENTEE: Sara Viele, Brompton Technology, Technical Support Specialist
Jane Hammersley
Queen of Collaboration, Blue Touch Paper
Queen of Collaboration - Celebrating the importance of bringing together people, technology, data, and AI to support channel partners communicate clear value for their brands and solutions, whilst extracting the right value.
MENTEE: Courtney Trott, MVS Audio Visual, Head of Procurement and Logistics
Darren Pitt
CTI, VP of EMEA
Darren Pitt is Vice President of Sales EMEA at CTI, responsible for scaling the UK and European business. With extensive experience building and leading AV organisations, including operating at shareholder and director level, he brings an engineering-led, people-focused approach to enterprise growth, talent development, and long-term client partnerships.
MENTEE: Binita Wilton, Hire frequencies, Account Manager
Daryl Clarke
COO, Workplace Vision
30-year veteran in AV and the Ex-SVP of the EMEA region at Diversified. Peter Jones Foundation Mentor of the Year 2024. Queens Award Winner for Enterprise in International Trade. Founded, grown and exited three companies.
MENTEE: Helen Stokes-Bellamy, Q-SYS, Business Development Manager
Hannah Sharma
Director of Sales - AV, Formerly Exertis UK
With nearly two decades of experience in the AV industry, I am passionate about supporting others in their professional journey in AV. My approach is always to offer honest and transparent communication whilst nurturing a mentee's talents and offering guidance. As a mother to two young children, I appreciate the challenges of balancing a career and being a present parent, so I pride myself on being empathetic when career and family goals conflict. I am deeply passionate about building more diversity across our industry and improving the breadth of our industry will inject new ideas and innovation.
MENTEE: Alannah-Jade Manley, Diversified, Customer Success Manager, EMEA
Sanjit Hurst
Global Procurement Director, Diversified
Sanjit is currently the Director of Global Procurement at Diversified, based in England. She covers the Procurement Strategies for the UK, Europe, Middle East and Africa regions for the business, but works closely with the USA, APAC, Canada and Australia too. Having been in the industry for 10 years, Sanjit has found her passion for diversity, equity and inclusion, especially working in a predominantly male-oriented environment. Having been a member of the women’s Avixa Council and attending yearly events such as SVG for Women and EmpowerHer, she is committed to driving positive change within the industry, focusing on diversity and inclusion in the workplace. "For me, this diverse, exciting and unique industry is all about the people and having endless opportunities collaborating with great minds alongside meeting amazing people from all walks of life."
MENTEE: Leah Harman, AVM Ltd / Northamber, Product Manager
Dan Roncoroni
Raven AV Ltd, Managing Director
Originally a live and theatre sound engineer, Dan now works primarily within the immersive and themed entertainment sectors as a designer, technical director, and commissioning engineer across the whole gamut of AV. His move to this sector coincided with the explosion of "cultural architecture" and so he has been able to collaborate with many of the leading architecture studios, technical consultancies, and integrators across the industry.
MENTEE: Teresa Juncosa Umaran, Kado Audiovisual, Freelance AV Consultant & Project Engineering - Director at Kado Audiovisual
Wayne Mason
Neat, VP of Global Distribution & Programs / AVP UK&I
Dynamic and results driven Senior Sales and Marketing Business leader with 30+ years of experience across high profile industries. A professional with expertise in a diverse range of skills within the channel including business development, client relationship management, strategic planning, sales and marketing, program management, marketing decisions to reflect a global business vision across multiple strategies, including product specifications, channel and partner management, while prioritizing projects to grow business and meet customer requirements. Cross-functional leader who excels at analyzing technological business needs;identifying sales opportunities;defining, capturing, and retaining clientele;and attaining substantial leverage in competitive global markets.
MENTEE: Charlotte Troak, Diversified, Project Manager
Karen Horsup
Group Head of Marketing, Midwich
With over two decades at Midwich Group and more than seven years of experience in strategic marketing, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her role as a Rise AV mentor. She is passionate about supporting others, offering practical advice, encouragement, and guidance to help individuals build confidence and grow in their careers. Karen is dedicated to fostering a supportive community where everyone is empowered to succeed.
MENTEE: Marnie Woodford-Venables, FOCUSRITE, Sustainability Assistant
James Keen
EVP Marketing, Uniguest
James is an experienced marketing professional with over 20 years of experience working in Audio Visual systems integration, Videoconferencing, IT Managed Services, Cloud and Hosting, Business Continuity, Digital Signage, IPTV, and Video Streaming. James is a strong product marketer with a focus on ensuring business value is delivered.
MENTEE: Jodie Hill, Sennheiser UK, Regional Marketing Manager | UK & Nordics
Vanessa Kennedy (Freeman)
Sharp Displays Solutions, Senior Sales Manager, Global Business
Vanessa is a Senior Sales Manager in the AV industry with extensive experience across partner management, account leadership, and global business development. A BESMA award-winning sales professional, she thrives on building relationships, driving growth, and leading international projects, all while keeping up with life as a mum to two young children!
MENTEE: Laura (Lou) Dixon-Wilkinson (Stevens), Siyan Ltd, Operations Manager
Tim Hoddy
VP Sales Director, Uniguest
Tim Hoddy has been fortunate enough to ‘grow up in AV’. Holding several roles across the supply chain, including key leadership positions, Tim has over 25 years of experience and is energised to share this with our next generation of rising stars.
MENTEE: Claire Holmes, Account Service Manager, Daktronics
Clark Henry Brown
Technical Associate, Charcoal Blue
Clark is an Associate at Experience Studios with broad experience in the arts industry as a manager, designer, and technician. Previously leading the AV department at the British Museum, he brings a wealth of expertise to engineering and creative projects in his field, offering a holistic perspective that bridges technical innovation with design and storytelling.
MENTEE: Amy Oxley, OneTwo, Prep Technician
Lisa Yates
BenQ, Sales Director
Ive spent 20 years in AV, starting from zero and learning everything on the job. Now Sales Director at BenQ, I’m passionate about mentoring, helping people build confidence, develop skills, and navigate their careers. I love pitching, problem-solving, and being part of a community of driven, like-minded professionals.
MENTEE: Laura Davidson, Audiologic, Internal Business Manager
Kennie Cole
Kinly, Global Account Director
Client experience is my passion, it should be the focus of everything we do, it's the responsibility of everyone in an organisation. Leading by example is the surest way to drive that experience. Mentoring others, adjusting their mindset to a client centric approach provides value to everyone involved including myself.
MENTEE: Kokui Agbenu, SMART Technologies, Sales Development Support
Danielle Williams
AVM / Northamber, Commercial Director
Danielle Williams is a senior AV professional with extensive experience in commercial leadership, strategic account management, and solutions-led sales. She works across multiple sectors, driving sustainable growth, building strong stakeholder relationships, and supporting the development of confident, commercially minded AV professionals
MENTEE: Mia Levitt, LED Studio, Channel Account Manager
Andy Atwell
RGB Communications Limited, Managing Director
An industry 'veteran' of over 30 years I have seen the industry develop from monochrome LCD panels and OHPs to fully integrated AV solutions working alongside BMS and stand alone. I have experience in both the Pro AV (fixed install and events) and CEDIA market places both domestically and in Europe. I am a well rounded individual that commits 100% to everything I do. Whether that's securing contracts, new vendors or football matches;I leave no stone un-turned in the pursuit of success. I also enjoy a beer!
MENTEE: Kim Owen, Diversified, Logistics Manager
Chris Wintle-Camp
Service Director, Aura Futures
Former helicopter engineer who discovered a passion for connecting people through technology. Over the past 15 years, I've nurtured global teams at AVI-SPL, Kinly, and now Aura Futures, building relationships as carefully as I create solutions. Guided by empathy in leadership and life as a father, archer, and musician.
MENTEE: Eleanor Clapp, 7thSense, Product Engineer
Emma Bigg
TAD, Project Manager
Emma worked extensively in live production, specialising in audio before moving to help establish a dedicated systems integration business to service existing and new customers. Starting with mainly live performance venues the business quickly expanded into hospitality, houses of worship, education and corporate. After a decade, Emma decided to create her own AV Design Consultancy to better explore new opportunities. Octavius Re was established in 2016 and has since been linked with many high profile names in the Hospitality and Corporate sectors. In early 2025, Emma joined TAD as a Project Manager to help the ever expanding team deliver a diverse range of corporate and experiential projects
MENTEE: Charlie Snuggs, Merlin Entertainments, Audio Visual Technician
Chris White
Turtle AV, EU Territory Manager
Spanning a wide field of knowledge and experience within AV, Chris is keen to encourage a new breed of technicians, engineers and managers to enter, strengthen and expand our industry. Be that through the sharing of knowledge, encouragement to just go-do, or support in more challenging times, now is the time to give something back.
MENTEE: Amber Jones, Audiologic, Application Support Engineer
Tom Halards
Jabra, Global GTM Lead
Tom is an experienced Strategic Alliances and Go-To-Market leader with over 20 years in the technology sector, including nearly a decade at Microsoft. He specialises in building and scaling partner ecosystems, developing GTM strategies, and driving operational alignment across marketing, channel, and alliance teams. Tom has worked extensively with global technology brands such as Microsoft, Google, Cisco, Dell, and Zoom, as well as across the IT and AV channel with distributors, resellers, and system integrators. His expertise spans SaaS, UCaaS, Cloud Solutions, Microsoft 365, Teams Rooms, and emerging technologies such as AI and agentic systems.
MENTEE: Jessie Bailey, CTI, Design Consultant
Martine Dodwell-Bennett
Absen, European Sales Director
Senior executive with a passion for building high-performing teams.
MENTEE: Rebecca Lloyd, Yorktel Kinly, Global Program Director