Date & place of birth:
May 21 1952; Tunbridge Wells, UK.

Profession:
Sales and marketing director, Martin Audio Limited.

What was your first job after full-time education?
As a newly-qualified drama teacher, I thought some time out would be good and so I dabbled in a variety of jobs. I was a less than average DJ, but I had good kit. I also worked as a small-time local promoter, lighting designer and roadie, and when lack of funds dictated, I was a supply teacher. I eventually teamed up with Malcolm Hill in the mid-’70s to manufacture and hire sound equipment, which is when I first met Dave Martin.

From school age and through to an involvement in youth theatre, I’d always been interested in entertainment, particularly lighting. Why the switch to sound? I’m not sure, but perhaps building enclosures seemed easier than making a Patt 23 move!

Martin Audio’s history dates back 36 years — which of its products do you think has been the most revolutionary?
Undoubtedly Martin’s original B115 W bin and the ubiquitous ‘Philishave’, followed by the F2 touring system. Now it has to be the complete series of horn-loaded line arrays.

What comes to mind when you remember your late founder, Dave Martin?
Propping up a bar in the early hours of the morning after a trade show, somewhere in the world, discussing all aspects of sound reinforcement. Dave was passionate about sound and drinking in a typical Aussie way.

What have been the initial benefits of Martin’s sale to Loud Technologies?
It’s very early days yet. We’re barely six months into the marriage. The depth of resource available to all companies within the group is not inconsiderable and I am sure the industry will witness the full benefit of our union soon enough... watch this space!

As newly appointed Chairman of PLASA, is there anything you’d propose to change about the Association and its interaction with the production industry?
As an association, PLASA is constantly evolving to meet the ever-demanding needs of the membership. The Executive Committee, which I currently chair, highlight issues of concern facing the industry and help PLASA determine what action they can take. High on the current agenda is raising standards and obtaining recognition for the level of competence achieved. For far too long, crew have been paid what companies can get away with and not a true reflection of their worth. By establishing standards pressure can be applied to change this policy. The National Rigging Certificate is the first of these initiatives with the rigging assessments taking place at PLASA07.

Other key projects currently on PLASA’s radar include its involvement with BEIRG to try and head off OFCOM’s proposed intention to sell off parts of the radio frequency spectrum, plus my own pet project of assisting companies in combating the ever-increasing flagrant copying of products.

What do you consider to be your greatest professional achievement?
My role in the team that has built on Dave Martin’s legacy; to firmly establish the Martin Audio brand as a world leader in sound reinforcement. Over the last 35 years, I’ve been privileged to meet and work with some great people, particularly those from the early Hill days who have affectionately became known as the ‘Kent Mafia’ and are now industry luminaries in their own right.

Pick one year from your career that you would happily re-live...
The summer of 1985, which included manufacturing all the sound equipment for Live Aid, crewing that event and the Monsters Of Rock tour of Europe with the rest of the Kent Mafia!

How do you like to spend your free time?
I’ve always derived great enjoyment from my work and still try and take in as many shows as possible. My other great passions are skiing with my sons and restoring farm houses in Kent — this one is definitely going to be my last!

Your ‘Desert Island Disc’?
It’s impossible to say because there are so many wonderful contenders, but one that still evokes strong memories from the early days is ‘Wooden Ships’ by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

What would be your advice to a teenage Rob Lingfield?
Treat others as you would like to be treated and never be afraid to ask. Stick to lighting, the pay is better!