Meet the Council - John McEvoy

John began working in the live event industry over 30-years ago. He started at Theatre Projects/Vari-Lite Europe in the warehouse in Greenford, before undertaking site work, and then becoming a Project/Account Manager. In this role he looked after a wide range of projects including corporate, car shows and launches, film & TV, theatre, concert touring and large scale events. There then followed a move into the production side of events, looking after technicians, training and development, and outreach to schools, colleges and universities. He was also involved in developing three apprenticeship standards, and still sits as the Chair for the Live Event Technician standard. Having worked for PRG, Essential Lighting & White Light, John currently works as the Health & Safety Manager for d&b solutions, responsible for safety across the group of companies. 

Find out more...

Where do you work?

I'm the H&S Manager at d&b solutions, which some of you will know better as White Light, elp, Pro AV and what was SFL. 

 

What do you love about the event production industry? 

Turning an empty space into somewhere very special for a short period of time, and then turning it all back again. And the sense of camaraderie that exists between everyone on site.  

 

How long have you been a PSA member, anc can you tell us about your experience as a council member? 

I think it's been about 12-years now, maybe longer, and a Council Member for about 10-years. As a Council Member it's been great to see some of our initiatives come to fruition and make a positive impact. Serving during the COVID pandemic was challenging, but it was great to have the support of the other Council Members, and to feel that we were helping to make a difference to our members.  

 

What are your goals for the PSA this year? 

I'm hoping we can raise more awareness for what we stand for and how we can help members, and ultimately grow our numbers. 

 

Why is it important for you to be part of the PSA council?

Representing the interests of the 1,000+ freelancers who are on the books at d&b solutions, and with my H&S (hard) hat on, trying to keep them as safe as possible when working not just for us, but across the industry as a whole. 

 

What is your advice to new members?

Get involved. The PSA Council are here for the members and to serve their interests, but we need input and involvement from them to make the association work.