Graham Likeness

Graham Likeness brings a wealth of industry marketing knowledge to the role of Principal, with past experience as Director of Sales and Marketing for Strand Lighting Canada, and more recently, Territory Sales Manager for Lex Products.

Graham was also the Vice-President of Sales and Marketing for industry leader Pathway Connectivity, introducing industry-changing products like DMXPathfinder, PathPort and the Ultimate Converter.

Graham has worked both sides of the street, with stints as a Technical Director at Toronto’s St. Lawrence Centre and as Assistant Technical Director at the prestigious Stratford Shakespeare Festival.

ABout

Sales Manager, Central United States and Canada, Lex Products Corp. 2012-2015
Managed this large territory, improving sales and customer relationships. Won the prestigious Lex Cup for top sales performance in 2014.

Product and Market Manager, Lex Products Corp. 2009-2011
Led the introduction of EverGrip^® molded multi-cable extensions, standardization of website and print collateral.

VP Sales & Marketing Pathway Connectivity 1996-2007
Started with Pathway as Sales Manager and after five years was promoted to VP Sales and Marketing. Responsibilities have included developing sales and marketing strategies, setting pricing, creation of data sheets and print ads, as well as working with consultants, dealers, and OEMs. Worked closely with R&D to develop innovative and award winning new products. Increased sales by an average of 15% per year, growing the company from 3 employees to 12.

National Sales Manager, Strand Lighting Canada 1991-1996
Promoted to National Sales Manager in 1991. Managed the Canadian sales for what was at that time, the dominant entertainment and architectural lighting manufacturer in the country. Managed four internal sales staff, ten independent manufacturer’s representatives and 20 independent retailers across Canada. Developed national sales strategy and budgets. Participated in international product development and marketing, working extensively with Strand R&D, participating in the development of several consoles.

Manager of Marketing & Projects, Strand Lighting Canada 1988-1991
Informed sales force regarding both our products and competitive developments. Developed and maintained quotation and product costing databases and reporting systems. Prepared all quotations and proposals for the company and managed major projects from start to completion. Acted as an IT resource, introducing PC’s into the office and bringing them into wide use within a year.

Manufacturers Representative, Sevenspec Systems 1981-1988
As a member of a three-person manufacturer’s agency, I promoted and sold Strand products to electrical engineers, consultants and end users. I initiated popular ‘lunch & learn’ sessions at consultant’s offices with intensive one-hour introductions to theatre and stage lighting.

Technical Director, St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts 1980
Managed and coordinated all technical aspects of theatre production in two theatres of Toronto’s second largest performing arts facility.

Assistant Technical Director, Stratford Shakespeare Festival 1979 & 1980 seasons
Managed the scenic construction shop crew of 15. Coordinated set construction and staging with designers and directors for 14 shows in rep, over three venues, each season.

Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA)
Director – Manufacturing (2000-2007)
Co-Chair Exhibitions & Events Committee (2007-2011)
Co-Chair Communications & Publications Committee (2003- 2007)
Co-Chair Member Relations Committee (2000-2003)