With over 15 years’ experience and more than 5,000 hours of transmitted live content, John Surdevan is a leading Multicamera Director for festivals and major outside broadcasts.

From high-profile award ceremonies to rain-soaked festival fields, he has directed hundreds of shows, developing a calm, instinctive approach to complex, high-pressure environments. Specialising in live music-led broadcasts and global concert livestreams, John approaches each production with a real-time editorial mindset—constructing the programme as it unfolds with control, pacing, and audience awareness.

Originally trained in graphic design before moving into music video and brand activation, John’s work is filtered through a varied artistic background that informs his disciplined visual language. This multidisciplinary perspective allows him to bridge the gap between creative vision and technical execution. With an in-depth understanding of cross-departmental requirements—from lighting and sound to health & safety—he anticipates operational challenges early, ensuring that even the most ambitious multicamera productions remain efficient and strategically aligned.

Based in Manchester, UK, John operates as an independent director for global commissions. He also offers integrated production support through his company, Jackinabox, headquartered at the Vectar Project TV studio. This central hub provides access to a dedicated sound stage, PPU, and camera facilities for projects requiring a Manchester-based production office or studio space. Whether collaborating with external OB partners or leading a project from his primary studio base, he maintains a clear, uncompromising creative vision for every broadcast.