Universal Live has announced the appointment of Dan Orchard as Commercial Director, marking an exciting step in the company’s continued evolution and long-term growth plans.
Dan joins Universal Live with extensive experience across the live events and technical production industry, having held senior roles at Anna Valley, Blue-I, Britannia Row Productions and most recently Blue Elephant, where he served as Commercial Director. His background spans operations, account management and strategic business development, giving him a well-rounded understanding of both delivery and commercial performance.
The creation of this new board-level role reflects Universal Live’s ambition to strengthen its commercial direction while remaining firmly rooted in the values that have shaped its success. As Kirsty Waine, CEO explains, “We’re incredibly proud of the culture we’ve built at Universal Live. Bringing Dan into the business was about more than experience, it was about finding someone who truly aligns with our people-first approach, our care for clients and our long-term vision.”
Dan will join the Senior Leadership Team and work closely with colleagues to refine and evolve the company’s commercial and sales strategy. Ben Phillips, COO notes that what stood out throughout the appointment process was Dan’s balance of strategic clarity and empathy: “He understands that sustainable growth comes from trust and partnership. That mindset mirrors how we work and how we become an extension of our clients’ teams.”
Universal Live has built a reputation as a trusted technical production partner and is known for delivering events with care, consistency and creativity. The appointment signals continued investment in structure and leadership as the business grows from its Yorkshire foundations.
Andy Robinson, CFO adds, “Strengthening our leadership team in this way reinforces our commitment to stable, considered growth. It’s about building for the long term while protecting the standards and service our clients rely on.” Clients can expect the same collaborative, stress-free experience and trusted team relationships they know, with Dan’s role focused on supporting and enhancing the business’s strategic direction.
The announcement follows a significant year for Universal Live, including enhanced ISO accreditations and new client wins across agencies, venues and direct clients and is further evidence of operational excellence and sustained market confidence.
Commenting on his appointment, Dan says he is excited to join a business “recognised not just for technical delivery, but for the way it cares about its people and its partnerships,” and looks forward to contributing to its next chapter.
