CEDIA has announced that it has appointed Giles Sutton, founder of London-based integration firm James + Giles, as senior vice president of industry engagement.
In his position, Sutton will be tasked with driving member engagement around the world, facilitating strong partnerships across the industry, and helping build awareness of the CEDIA channel among architects, builders, and interior designers.
“Giles has an incredibly clear understanding of the CEDIA membership – their needs, challenges, and opportunities for growth – having built his own successful integration business,” commented Tabatha O’Connor, president and CEO of the organisation.
“Giles also has a great understanding of working with design and build professionals and can attribute much of his company’s growth to outreach efforts, which will be a huge help to us in executing our strategic plan.”
Sutton has dedicated the past 13 years to working as managing director of James + Giles in Clerkenwell, London, and under his leadership the company has collected multiple industry awards.
Prior to founding James + Giles, Sutton worked for a pro audio installation company designing recording studios and live sound systems.
“I am incredibly proud of the company I have built: At the same time, I find myself ready for a new challenge," said Sutton. He added: "Having gone through the strategy process as a member of the CEDIA Board, I feel incredibly confident in the direction of the organisation and the important role this position will play. I am honoured to be joining the CEDIA team and know we will do great work together."
Sutton has served as a CEDIA volunteer in many capacities over many years – on the board (the EMEA board - now the global board), Membership Advisory Council, the Designation Task Force, the Governance Committee, and the Trailblazers Apprentice Working Group (EMEA), in addition to holding the position of CEDIA treasurer.
Sutton is also a qualified CEDIA Outreach Instructor (COI) and holds the CEDIA Certified Designer (ESC-D) designation.
He graduated with a BA Honours degree in Sound Technology from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA).
Sutton’s new position sees him step down from the CEDIA Board and has resign as managing director of James + Giles.