With over 15 years’ experience and more than 5,000 hours of transmitted live content, John Surdevan has directed across 50+ festivals and major outside broadcasts. From red-carpet stages to rain-soaked festival fields, he has seen it all, developing a calm, instinctive approach that ensures complex productions run smoothly.

Specialising in music-led broadcasts, award ceremonies, large outside broadcasts and global livestream events, he approaches each production with a real-time editorial mindset — constructing the programme as it unfolds with control, pacing and audience awareness.

Originally trained in design before moving into music video and brand activation, John developed a disciplined visual language that now informs his live work. His cross-department production knowledge allows him to anticipate operational challenges early. As a result, complex productions remain efficient and strategically aligned.

Based in Manchester, John operates independently as a director while also working through his production company, Jackinabox, at the TV studio, Vectar Project. This provides access to a dedicated sound stage and PPU and camera facilities for projects requiring integrated production support. He regularly collaborates with external OB and production partners, adapting to the scale and structure of each broadcast while maintaining a clear creative vision.