HSL Appoints Harrison Cooke as Technical Operations Manager

HSL continues its recent management restructuring with the appointment of Harrison Cooke as technical operations manager.

Harrison will be responsible -- among other things -- for the design, sourcing, and building of HSL's new expandable visual control platforms utilizing the latest cutting edge technology.

"Technical direction, support, and continuing investment is paramount to stay ahead in the game," says Cooke.

The HSL Group of companies offers a full range of services across the UK and Ireland and plans to reach further into Europe in the coming months, so standardization and ease of use in the context of control platforms is of vital importance, the company says.

The scope of Cooke's work will include advising on new equipment purchases. He will also be dealing with preparation of various tours and events, and the on-going supervision and refinement of systems that ensure every project features the characteristic efficiency and friendliness for which HSL is renowned.

Cooke will also visit touring shows and productions that are up-and-running, driving a constant stream of feedback between the office, warehouse, and the HSL teams on the road.

HSL MD Simon Stuart says, "We're delighted to have Harrison on-board. He has already worked with us on some demanding and galvanizing shows, and his keen eye, attention to detail, and extremely organized workflow make him ideal for the role. His passion for the industry also makes him perfect for HSL".

Cooke is very excited, "HSL has a great atmosphere; I like the people and their dedication and attitude to work. I will be part of a proactive management team to help maintain the highest production standards and ensure that HSL stays at the forefront of the technology 'game' and continues to deliver the best options and choices for lighting designers and end clients."

Cooke first became interested in lighting aged 11. He studied initially at Mid Kent College and then Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London where he graduated with a BA Hons degree in Technical Theatre.

He has already packed plenty of practical experience into his working career as a freelancer which has included crewing for other rental companies, stints at the Royal Albert Hall and Sadlers Wells in London, and touring as production LX with various theatre shows for top producer Bill Kenwright. This is where he first met HSL.

"I like challenges," he says. "HSL is a company that is very much going places, so I am looking forward to a positive and interesting future there."

Other recent appointments at HSL include John Slevin as one of a raft of new project managers and Mick Seddon, who has joined as FD and financial strategist.