Bradford-based Pro Audio Systems has revealed the recruitment of Martin Bailey to the post of Projects Director.
From apprentice scenic painter at Bristol Old Vic, to live and studio freelancer, Bailey graduated in 3D Design (Theatre) from Wimbledon School of Art. Further stints as a sound engineer at Good Earth and Sound Design studios in London (and regular work as theatre technician in the West End) preceded a move into the live sound arena working for a diverse range of artists including Motörhead, Fela Kuti, Nick Cave and Squeeze.
Leaving the road to take up the Technical Manager’s position at Phoenix Arts Centre in Leicester, Bailey enjoyed a seven-year tenure, with responsibility for an extensive and varied programme. This considerably broadened his experience and prompted another dive into the world of freelancing, this time organising and project-managing large-scale prestigious events such as Sheffield’s Millennium New Year’s Party, and during which time he obtained a number of technical qualifications.
From 2005 to 2020 Martin worked for Theatre Projects, managing some of the most significant cultural building projects in the world. In a design and project management capacity, he successfully delivered a number of flagship projects such as Oslo Opera House, Shanghai Symphony Hall and the House of Dancing Water – just three examples of 57 projects across 158 venues in 16 countries.
Brian Lumb, Managing Director of PAS, commented: “Martin’s career is nothing short of remarkable. He’s worked on an amazing range of projects and over a career spanning nearly four decades has accumulated a level of knowledge and experience that would be hard to match anywhere. It’s very clear that we’ll be able to deploy his skills across all areas of developing our business. Martin will be a huge asset to the Pro Audio Systems team as we continue to grow.”
Bailey added: “I’ve worked with PRO Audio Systems since 1994, engaging with them as a purchaser of equipment, hirer of equipment, client project manager, supervising designer, and most recently working for sister company Blynk as a freelance project manager in Qatar. Having worked on some significant installs with PAS, including The Lyceum and Crucible theatres in Sheffield, I’ve always been impressed with the quality of their workmanship. As a consultant with Theatre Projects, PAS were by far the highest quality installers I have ever worked with, so when they offered me the position, the decision was simple. I’m looking forward to working across all aspects of the business and developing their market in the industry.”
