Mediaworks director of technology makes seachange

John Allen, MediaWorks’ Director of Technology has announced he’ll be stepping down from his fulltime role at the end of August for lifestyle reasons.

However, he will continue to advise MediaWorks on technical projects such as the upcoming digital switchover and other specialist work.

Mr Allen has been with the Company for 10 years and has worked in the broadcast industry for 25 years.

MediaWorks Group Managing Director Sussan Turner paid tribute to John Allen’s significant contribution to both MediaWorks and the broadcast industry in New Zealand.

“John has been a leading industry player in the vital behind-the-scenes technical development of the broadcasting business in New Zealand.

“He was instrumental in delivering High Definition television to New Zealanders and TV3 viewers benefited by receiving this service first in the country. John drove the technical standards for HD television in New Zealand, and we are grateful for his enormous contribution to our business and the industry in New Zealand,” said Ms Turner.

“The good news is that we will be able to continue to tap into John’s expertise and capability in an ongoing capacity,” she said.

John Allen said there have been numerous career highlights for him.

“Introducing widescreen TV, High Definition TV and the tapeless environment have all been significant step changes in our industry and it’s been a privilege to be at the forefront of such major developments,” said Mr Allen.

Mr Allen has also represented the industry on numerous Government Boards as well as the Freeview Board.

“Right now my next priorities are all about lifestyle and creating enough time for more fishing, more blue grass music, and achieving a hole in one at my new permanent local golf course at Mangawhai,” he said.

Mr Allen will also be working on other commercial consulting projects as required in the broader industry “as long as it doesn’t cramp my lifestyle” he commented.

- Mediaworks