Rise expands board with broadcast and AV industry appointments

Industry advocacy group Rise has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Purminder Gandhu and Daryl Clarke as non-executive directors, adding experience from across the broadcast and audiovisual sectors as the organisation continues to expand its mentoring and leadership programmes.

Gandhu brings more than three decades of broadcast technology experience, having begun her career at the BBC before moving into advanced technology development and strategic initiatives through BBC R&D. She now leads consultancy KAURWAVE and is a familiar figure across industry events including IBC, NAB, MPTS and SVG. A long-time supporter of Rise, she has previously contributed as both a mentor and panel participant.

“As a British South Asian woman who has navigated this industry through decades of change, I know talent has never been the issue,” said Gandhu. “The challenge has always been access, visibility and sponsorship. Rise plays a critical role in helping address those barriers, and I’m proud to join the board at a time when the organisation is making such a meaningful impact across the industry.”

Clarke joins the board following a career spanning entrepreneurship, systems integration and business leadership within the AV sector. Formerly founder of Digitavia and SVP EMEA at Diversified, he has also become recognised for his mentoring work, receiving the Peter Jones Foundation Mentor of the Year award in 2024.

“Rise is creating meaningful long-term change by investing in people and leadership development,” said Clarke. “Building stronger and more diverse leadership pathways is essential for the future of the AV industry, and I’m excited to support the organisation as it continues to broaden its reach and impact.”

The appointments come as Rise continues to broaden its activities across both the broadcast and AV industries following the launch of Rise AV, with ongoing expansion of its mentoring, leadership and career development initiatives.

“We are delighted to welcome Purminder and Daryl to the board at such an important stage in Rise’s development. Both bring exceptional experience from across the broadcast and AV industries, alongside a genuine commitment to supporting and championing others,” commented Sadie Groom, Founder and CEO of Rise Diversity. “As the organisation continues to grow, their insight and leadership will help strengthen the breadth of experience within the board while supporting our long-term vision for the future of Rise. They each understand the importance of creating opportunity, improving visibility and helping more women build sustainable, successful careers within our industries.”