At Central Hall Westminster (CHW), our state-of-the-art AV installation coupled with our historic architecture sees us attract event professionals from across the globe. And whilst both the technology and heritage of a venue is important, just as vital is the team helping deliver events within our spaces. At CHW, all our client’s technical requirements are overseen by our in-house Production Service Partner, White Light. We’ve managed to speak to each of the WL team to discover how their expertise helps bring our client’s events to life:
James Thurlow – Venue Technical Manager
I oversee the entire production venue partnership operation at CHW. This involves managing the relationship between the various stakeholders at the venue and ensuring our operation is as fluid as possible. Strong communication is vital for my role and I host two daily meetings between the Operation and Sales representatives, with both entities having to work together to deliver unforgettable events. Similarly, I review all client feedback we receive to constantly assess our in-house operation and seek out new and improved ways in which to enhance the experience of those using our spaces.
Alex Wright – Sales Manager
My role as Sales Manager sees me work closely with clients right from their initial enquiry, conducting all site visits and being on hand to answer any questions. In the planning stages of an event, I identify and communicate all potential operational challenges such as when we are using a vast amount of equipment or making changes to audience layout. Once I have a complete understanding of a client’s specific requirements, I will use these to generate a quote. I have a strong relationship with CHW Sales team and we work together to get the most out of the spaces and fulfil the client’s expectations.
Len Layton – Deputy Venue Technical Manager
My role as Deputy Venue Technical Manager sees me take a client’s vision and bring this to life. I work closely with Alex to understand the brief we’ve been given, consider the event’s technical requirements and then resource all the equipment needed from WL’s Wimbledon base. I am also responsible for the crew show times and logistics, with these being aligned to the venue’s operation.
Oli Carlisle-Brown – Senior Venue Technician
As Senior Venue Technician, I am ‘the face of WL’ on the day of an event. This allows the client to have one point of contact and I can fulfil any last-minute requests they may have. I manage all load in and load outs on the day, ensuring these run smoothly and that we protect the integrity of this historic building. Alongside this, I manage WL’s inventory of on-site AV equipment, making sure our stock is maintained and up to the high standard expected from our clients.
Chris Gadd – Venue Technician
As Venue Technician, I oversee the installation of the various AV equipment in the event spaces throughout CHW. I’ve developed an extensive knowledge of the building both operationally and technically. As part of my work at CHW, I continue to develop AV-related technical skills – ones which I can put into practice daily.
