SMPTE UK headlines Andy Beale

What's this about? The Bill Lovell Lecture is an annual event for SMPTE UK, featuring individuals who have made a significant contribution to the media industry, and with an interesting story to tell. This year, we're featuring the energetic and inspiring Andy Beale, best known for his roles as Chief Engineer & Head of Innovation at BT Sport, and as Co-founder of the Rise Up Academy.

Who's Andy Beale?

• Andy is a proven and experienced senior technology and operations leader most recently responsible for BT Sport's broadcast infrastructure, operations, roadmap and innovation strategy.
• A key member of the senior team delivering best in class programming, production solutions and customer obsessed leadership for the multi award winning and disruptive premium sports broadcaster. Accomplished in transformation, project leadership, solution design, supplier management, technical innovation and change management.
• Co-founder and Chair of the Rise Up Academy initiative, a STEM Schools outreach program that aims to inspire and educate young people about technology career paths in the media and entertainment industry and deliver vital transformational change in the diversity profile of the sector.
• Andy was elevated to SMPTE Fellow in 2020 and conferred the IABM Technology Leader of the Year in 2021. His pioneering work and projects have been recognised by many honours including prestigious RTS and multiple IBC Innovation Awards.

When's it on? Weds 22 Nov 2023. Doors open 18:30. Talk starts at 19:30. Event ends at 21:30.

What does it cost? Attendance is free of charge. Just like all SMPTE UK events, this meeting is open to existing professionals and students alike. Ample refreshments will be provided courtesy of our event sponsors.

Where’s it happening? The Global Academy in Hayes, a beacon of education for the next generation of media talent, located just a few minutes from Heathrow Airport and easily accessible from Central London on the new Elizabeth Line. More info here.

Where is the venue precisely? The Global Academy is on Blyth Road in Hayes, postcode UB3 1DH. It is located just before the junction with Trevor Road. If you are walking from Hayes and Harlington train station up Blyth Road, it is the building just before the huge HMV dog. The building entrance is on the side facing away from the road. Please note if you get travel directions from Google Maps, a mapping error means it will direct you to ABV Solicitors, which is on the street behind the venue.

How do I get there? The best way to get to the Global Academy is by train. It's only a short walk from Hayes and Harlington station, which is on the TFL Elizabeth Line and GWR Main Line. If you wish to drive, good news: you may park for free in Global's carpark for this evening's event. Turn left just before the huge HMV dog, then turn right and go straight on. Don't enter the multistory carpark!