SMPTE's David Grindle To Conclude Term As Executive Director

SMPTE® has announced that David Grindle will conclude his term as the Society's executive director on 18 October.

Grindle has served SMPTE in this role for two years, guiding its ongoing evolution and growth in supporting professionals across the industry. Collaborating with staff, volunteers, members, and the SMPTE Board of Governors, he has played a central role in making the Society more accessible and valuable to its global membership — from students and early career professionals to well-established creatives, engineers, and executives working in media and entertainment.

"We deeply appreciate David's service to SMPTE during a period of immense change and transition," said SMPTE President Renard T. Jenkins. "As SMPTE continues to build toward its future, we’re grateful that David’s contributions have helped to position the Society on a positive trajectory for growth and success."

As executive director, Grindle led SMPTE in launching new products and educational initiatives designed to bring added benefits to both individual members and corporate partners. The Society’s achievements during his tenure include making standards and self-study courses available free on demand to members, expanding outreach to students and new entrants to the industry, amplifying the organization’s focus on global membership, introducing simpler and more flexible options for membership, and realizing cost reductions and greater operational efficiency. True to form, Grindle also inspired the Society’s members to learn how to tie a bow tie in raising money for the SMPTE Education Fund.

Through technical conferences, industry events and partnerships, and its continually expanding offering of timely educational programs and courses, SMPTE has helped a wide array of media professionals to further their knowledge and careers. To this end, notable accomplishments during Grindle’s tenure include supporting the regionalization of the various German SMPTE Student Chapters, creating a larger cohort and expanding the potential reach of each university’s program; adding Clark Atlanta University, the first HBCU (historically Black colleges and universities) to join the SMPTE Student Chapter family; further augmenting the educational resources and solutions available through SMPTE Rapid Industry Solutions (RIS) initiatives; and launching training courses focused on practical knowledge for IP-based media operations.

"I have enjoyed my tenure at SMPTE and am proud of the work we have accomplished in that time," said Grindle. "My colleagues on staff and the larger SMPTE volunteer community have continually amazed me with their dedication to the Society’s activities, and I am thankful to everyone for the partnerships we have forged together. I look forward to seeing the Society continue its forward momentum."

As the industry evolves and the tools supporting the art and science of media, information, and entertainment advance, the Society will continue to adapt through positive change and growth. The SMPTE Executive Committee and SMPTE Board of Governors, in partnership with SMPTE staff, will continue to bring a rich offering of impactful programming, educational events, and volunteer opportunities to the Society’s global membership.

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