The BlackRook companies were formed by the television journalist and presenter Alan Rook in 2011.
Alan saw an opportunity to bring together a talented group of international broadcast, communications and digital media professionals. Experienced media executives and skilled craft technicians whose combined abilities provide a compelling offer to prospective clients.
Over 14 years now, our leadership team has successfully delivered hands-on media services on every continent on Earth – except, so far, Antarctica (but there’s still time yet…)
MEET OUR TEAM BELOW
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![]() | Alan Rook Managing Director |
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Adam Harrod Chief Content and Commercial Officer |
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Lucy Rook Managing Director | ![]() |
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Valerie van der Graaf Director of Programming |
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James Alexander Barnett Director of Photography |
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Neil Stainsby Director of Live Production |
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Mark Southgate Executive Producer |
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Joe Albanese Head of Video |
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Lydia Joy Wiese Head of Partnerships |
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Adam Rook Production Editor |
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Nicola Butler Production Editor |
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John Todd Production Editor |
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Susan Roche Campaign Manager |
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Michelle Sherridan Campaign Manager |
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Sue Kinnear Presentation Lead |
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Philip Gomm Communications Lead |
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Kieron Brennan Post Production Lead |
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Emma Dibia Africa Lead |
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Oliver Rook Assistant Producer / Floor Manager |
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Sandy Gwynn Finance Lead |
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Alan Rook provided world class leadership during the pre-launch project phase of the Arise network, which is a global TV and mutimedia service focusing on parts of the world which do not receive the attentions of traditional media. Alan’s media experience and his excellent communications skills allowed him to create and manage a team which laid the foundations for the network’s successful launch. He was able to take the original vision of the service, add to it and turn it into a practical media product. He was involved in the selection of the senior management team, whom he trained and guided. He co-ordinated inputs from Arise offices in Africa, Asia and the USA. His contribution was pivotal in the development of the network.
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For expert training, for quality production support, for first class experience right across the media industry, BlackRook is a genuinely big hitter.
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I recommend Alan Rook 100%. He did a superb job for us as Head of News at British Forces Broadcasting and helped to raise the quality of all our news output. He’s an excellent journalist and a great people person.
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I’ve been a journalist for the BBC, ITV and now France 24 in Paris. Over my 11 years of experience, I always refer to Alan Rook as the best manager I’ve ever had and think back to him as a reference to what is good leadership. He always had a clear vision and was decisive and fair. He was also very approachable and respected
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Alan is an exceptional business consultant with vast knowledge & multimedia experience.
His entrepreneurial skill is an added value that positions him well in proffering quality advise that helps in making timely decisions. Launching our revolutionary RefPredictor on web and mobile, he was able to see through our vision, interrogate our product & advised us choosing the right business model that made an impact in our market. Today, we are proud to tell our story.
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Alan Rook is a leader who inspires others and encourages excellence among his colleagues. He is passionate, driven and generous with his time – always keen to bring out the best in others and encouraging them to succeed. He has helped many journalists improve their skill set and advance their careers.
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I’ve worked with Alan across two of ITV’s flagship shows, This Morning and Daybreak. On each occasion Alan has brought with him a wealth of knowledge and experience which has quickly allowed him to gain the respect of colleagues and staff. This is no easy task on two fast moving shows. On This Morning, Alan’s guidance was invaluable and I consider his support as a key factor to my own development as a team leader within a major broadcasting and production company.
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Gavin was very attentive to our needs in striking the right balance throughout the filming schedule and he did a great job in keeping everyone happy and in ensuring that everyone stayed ‘on board.
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I worked with BlackRook on a challenging development project that involved expert insight but also tactful handling of some of the parties involved. Alan Rook delivered superbly on all counts. I look forward to working with him again.