The Online Home Of Matt Blank

Radio Northwick Park (Hospital Radio)

Since 1999 I have worked with Radio Northwick Park, becoming Programme Controller in 2004 and being appointed Chairman in 2007. I present a show every Thursday at 8pm called 'The iShow'. Listen live online.

I operate the mixing desk and computer system and produce shows for myself and others. During my time as Programme Controller for this successful radio station, I organised on air schedules, special events and provided feedback and technical training to presenters.

As Chairman, along with a committee, I am in charge of the running and output of the station. I have key responsibilities to ensure all aspects of the station are running smoothly and that the committee are able to do their jobs successfully.

I work to make sure that we are financially stable and deal with any problems the station may have. I work to create new and pioneering ideas and to motivate colleagues and volunteers to make the sound of the station the highest quality possible. I was also the key player in launching an Internet Broadcasting service for the station in 2006 and a major refurbishment project in 2009. I am a trustee for the charity that was founded in 1971 and work with other volunteers visiting the wards, interacting with a broad range of people from diverse backgrounds and of all ages.

www.radionorthwickpark.org

Michael Jackson World Network

Since 2000 I have helped run and I am the spokesperson for Michael Jackson's UK Fan Club. As well as producing the website, I organise press releases as well as liaise with management teams and Sony Music. I also research news, answer fan and press enquiries and write articles for magazines. I have also helped co-ordinate parties and events for up to three thousand attendees.

I have successfully worked to deadlines and my remit has included handling confidential information, leading as well as working within a team and working alongside other Fan Clubs from all over the world including Italy, Denmark, Germany, France and the USA.

As part of my regular dealings with the media, I often appear on national and international TV and Radio, including BBC News (pictured), Sky News, CNN, ITV, BBC Radio 5, TalkSport and various other local radio stations around the UK. I've also given interviews to papers and magazines such as The Guardian, The Times, The Sun, OK Magazine, Now Magazine and the Associated Press.

www.mjworld.net

2010 - Present: Lead Designer, AOL

Working on AOL's EU Search, I lead teams in the development and implementation of high-quality, interactive user interface design solutions, including site layouts, site maps, navigation design, content inventories and information organisation models. I am also accountable for the overall search UI, PHP blogs, widgets, flash applications and more.

2007 - 2010: Senior Web & Flash Designer, Dennis Publishing

Worked on websites for their high profile magazines including Maxim, Men's Fitness, PC Pro, and Auto Express. I designed and developed microsites, custom channels, html newsletters and flash promos (mpu's etc...). I also created full page flash animation for their e-mags, designing for companies including 20th Century Fox, Warner Bros, Coke, Disney, Shell, Canon, Renault, Timberland and Ford among 30 other blue chip brands.

2006 - 2007: Web Producer, AKQA

Working for digital design agency AKQA in Central London, I was part of a small team who maintained all of Microsoft's Xbox European sites. I created graphics, edited flash and designed layouts for various sections. I was also the Lead Producer for the Nike Plus website, which promoted the collaboration between the famous sports brand and Apple’s iTunes.

2001 - Present: Freelance Web Designer

I have designed, built and maintained many websites for various companies including music specialists, an architect practice and a West End musical. I have successfully set up e-commerce websites and helped companies effectively increase their revenue and secure significant contracts through their online presence. I have good search engine optimisation skills. For more details see my web portfolio.

2004 - 2006: Product Specialist, Sony Computer Entertainment

I offered technical advice to consumers and staff as well as monitored agents on the PlayStation® Careline to help provide a better service to their customers. I also presented new procedures and product knowledge to staff, as well as dealt with escalated queries regarding complicated technical issues or queries about the policies of Sony Computer Entertainment and their products.

2003 - 2004: Actor

I performed in various theatre and television productions including tours around England, hosted documentaries for TV and Radio and performed in adverts. I have also been involved in voice over and production work.