About Us
Stage Engage is your Production Ally — blending technical excellence, creative problem-solving, and unwavering reliability to deliver events that make an impact.
Rooted in technical production and live events, we’ve grown over 15 years into a trusted partner for brand launches, national conferences, sales events, and large-scale international forums. With bases in Exeter and West London, we support clients across the UK and Europe, delivering productions in cities from Paris and Amsterdam to Geneva and Zurich.
Renowned for pushing beyond the expected, we bring innovation through in-house solutions, meticulous production value, and a collaborative approach that sets us apart. Our commitment was recognised at the Event Production Awards 2024, where we proudly won Best AV Production of the Year. Always responsive. Always ready. Always engaged.
About us
We provide end-to-end production services, tailored to your event needs. Whether you need a full solution or a trusted team to support your vision, we’re your crew.
Our Approach: Production Allies
We don’t just deliver kit – we deliver peace of mind. As your Production Allies, we:
Act as an extension of your team
Offer ideas and solutions without being asked
Operate quietly in the background so you shine
Solve problems with a smile
Show up early, stay late, and always follow through
Our full-time team of creative event producers and directors, project managers, and specialist technical team combines over 100+ years of experience in the world of events. Stage Engage’s unique blend of experience, skills and out-of-the-box thinking includes extensive working knowledge and understanding of working in partnership with agencies, national and international broadcasters, corporations, major national exhibition and conferences, brand and product launches and activations, and large scale technical and full production delivery.
Whatever the project, no matter the budget, our team have one remit – raise the level of production
Chris Ablett - Founder & Director
More than 15 years ago, Chris founded Stage Engage with a simple vision: to combine technical expertise and creativity to deliver events of exceptional quality. Today, under his leadership, Stage Engage has become one of Europe’s most respected corporate event production agencies, recognised for innovation, reliability, and outstanding delivery.
Alex Macan - Commercial Director
Alex played a pivotal role in the early days of Stage Engage, helping to shape the company’s foundations. Following a successful career in the live events and festival industry, he rejoined Stage Engage in 2025 as Commercial Director. Today, Alex leads the commercial strategy of the business, driving growth, building partnerships, and ensuring Stage Engage continues to deliver value for clients across every project.
Leadership Team
Tobias Baker - Managing Director
Toby has built a distinguished career in the events industry over the past 15 years. He was part of the founding team behind Diabetes Professional Care conference and exhibition, which he successfully grew and later managed through to acquisition. Bringing that entrepreneurial drive and expertise to Stage Engage, Toby now leads as Managing Director, guiding the company’s continued growth and success.
Jake Pickering - Operations Director
Jake brings a wealth of experience from years of designing and delivering high-profile corporate projects across the UK and Europe. He oversees every aspect of operations, ensuring productions run seamlessly from concept to completion. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and calm, solutions-driven approach, Jake plays a pivotal role in maintaining Stage Engage’s reputation for reliability, quality, and flawless delivery.
Matt Ilsley - Head of Technology
Matt brings a wealth of experience in delivering complex corporate events across the UK and Europe. With deep expertise in audio, lighting, video, and staging, he leads the technical team in designing and executing seamless productions that bring creative visions to life. Known for his problem-solving skills and calm, hands-on approach, Matt combines technical precision with an eye for innovation — ensuring every event runs flawlessly and leaves a lasting impact.
Jay Dedhiya - Events Director
Jay brings over 15 years of agency experience supporting large-scale corporate & event agencies across the UK, Europe, and India. With a deep understanding of how partner agencies operate, he plays a key role in coordinating our blended approach — ensuring every client challenge is met with smart, seamless solutions.
Ed Hills - Head of Fabrication
Ed Hills brings extensive experience from years working across the corporate events industry. With a strong background in design and build, he specialises in creating bespoke fabrication solutions that transform ideas into striking, functional event environments. Ed’s hands-on expertise and meticulous eye for detail ensure that every structure not only meets the highest standards of quality and safety, but also enhances the overall production experience. His blend of creativity, precision, and practical know-how makes him an invaluable part of the Stage Engage team.