andy atkin

Role

In his teaching role, Andy delivers modules to final-year undergraduate and post graduate students, with a particular focus on research methods and academic inquiry in line with emerging trends and industry practices. He also contributes to the BSc Event Production programme by teaching Research Practice in year 3 and supporting the integration of technology in event production modules across Years 1 and 2. His expertise bridges theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping students with the skills and insights needed for success in the evolving events industry.

Career overview

With a foundation in lighting and stage technology, he began his career in theatre and live events, working primarily with Theatre in Education and local community theatre organisations. Alongside this, he built a freelance practice as a certified electrician and technology installer, specialising in lighting, sound, and media equipment for a variety of performance and event spaces.

Andy's passion for sharing industry knowledge led him to part-time teaching roles, delivering technical skills across event technology and theatre-based courses. In 2003, he founded an events infrastructure and management company, becoming a regular supplier to community festivals and local events. This work expanded into managing and delivering themed markets and fairs across diverse UK and European locations, navigating a wide range of site types and operational challenges.

Since 2019, he has focused on advancing my career in education, contributing to curriculum development in event management and production, and taking on leadership roles within academic programmes. As a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader for BA and MA Event Management, he oversees course delivery, leads the academic team, and teaches research-focused modules to final-year students. He also supports technology teaching within the BSc Event Production programme.

In parallel with his academic work, he continues to engage professionally in the events sector, taking on roles such as volunteer manager, artist liaison, and infrastructure manager at festivals. His career reflects a blend of hands-on industry expertise and a commitment to developing the next generation of event professionals through innovative and practice-led education.

External activity

Alongside his academic role, he is an active partner in an infrastructure and event management company, where I oversee general business operations, financial management, compliance, and strategic planning. My work directly supports the delivery of festivals and civic events, with responsibilities spanning site management, team coordination, and operational logistics.

I also contribute to a range of events in roles such as Artist Liaison, Ground Transport Coordinator, Infrastructure Manager, and Logistics Lead. This hands-on industry engagement is carefully balanced with my academic commitments, with a focus on summer and seasonal festivals that complement and enrich my teaching practice. This dual role ensures my academic work remains grounded in current industry practice and emerging trends.