Backup Tech, the charity supporting those working behind the scenes in the entertainment technology industry, is delighted to announce the appointment of Lee Dennison as its new Chair.

Lee, a Backup Trustee for 13 years, and orchestrator of the hugely popular annual Village Fete, has taken over the reins from Piers Shepperd, who has served as Chair for the past three years and a Trustee for a decade. He has been instrumental in implementing a highly successful structure behind the scenes, building on the foundations of his predecessor.

During his time at the charity, he has seen Backup continue to provide vital medical grants and address the challenges faced by today’s freelancers by increasing its initiatives around Wellbeing Support; including sharing industry initiatives that help improve awareness and foster more open communication about mental health, addition and recovery, and general wellbeing, as well as financial wellbeing. 

During his time as Chair, Piers also instigated the Ambassador and Partner programmes, implemented a new grant portal to improve the process for the grant committee, and introduced a limit on the time both the Trustees and the Chair can serve.

“I did that for many reasons, a major one being that we understand that people’s time is valuable and, with mental health always in mind, we want to make sure no one becomes overwhelmed,” he says. “We also want to ensure we can bring in new, fresh perspectives to make sure Backup stays relevant as the industry continues to change and freelancers face new and different challenges. 

“I have thoroughly enjoyed by time as Chair, and I’m proud that, collectively, we have continued to make a positive difference to the industry’s freelance community. I’m stepping down with mixed emotions as I’ll miss the camaraderie of the team and the joy of seeing when we’ve made a difference to people’s lives. But it’s time to hand over the reins and I know that Lee will do a sterling job of leading Backup into its next chapter.”

“As Piers Shepperd steps down as Chair of Backup, I want to take a moment to recognise the immense contribution he’s made,” says Lee. “When we lost John Simpson, Piers stepped in and helped shape the systems and processes that now ensure every support request is handled with professionalism, empathy — and speed. While we can’t take away the problem, Backup exists to ease the pressure through the support it offers.

“I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Piers for many years, most recently as Vice Chair. That shared continuity and passion is something I’m committed to carrying forward with our brilliant Trustees and Ambassadors.

“Backup has always been built by the industry, for the industry — and it’s our job to make sure it stays fit for purpose, ready to support those in the industry who need it most.”