For nearly 30 years, Alan was one of the most well-known voices on BBC Radio and, more recently, a familiar face too on BBC TV. Highlights of Alan’s career included three industry awards in 2001 and 2002. He also had the honour of acting as royal commentator for BBC TV when Her Majesty the Queen opened the Millennium Bridge in 2002.
Today, with business partner Wendy Gibson, Alan chairs Soundswright Ltd, specialising in publicity consultancy, strategic advice, and training in presentation and media skills. His travel writing and broadcasting keeps him particularly busy, and he has enjoyed combining his speaking trips with travel journalism in many parts of the world. He has also played a key role in publicity and media consultancy for many leading companies and high profile individuals. For many years, Alan has been a popular columnist and travel writer in the regional and national press.
From 1993 to 1995, Alan took a short “sabbatical” from the BBC when he was asked to become Chief Executive at Durham County Cricket Club and had a fascinating two years during which the superb new Riverside Ground was developed. During his spell at the helm, membership became the biggest in England outside a Test Match Ground, and business support broke all records, with the £500,000 sponsorship deal with Scottish & Newcastle Breweries drawing a gasp throughout the world of cricket. Under the headline Captain’s Innings, an editorial in the Newcastle Journal said:
“The enormous success of the County has been due to his astute enthusiasm.”
Many people throughout the UK, and beyond, know Alan Wright best as a top class after-dinner speaker. London engagements have included the Cafe Royal, the Park Lane Hilton, the Dorchester and the Institute of Directors, while international appearances have included the USA, Dubai, and even France (for Martell Cognac).
He has regularly hosted major conferences, car launches and award ceremonies, and has hosted events featuring some of the biggest names of British politics and public life.
Alan has also hosted many tours and talk-ins with the biggest sporting names including Kevin Keegan, Ian Botham, Jack Charlton, Graham Gooch, and Dean Richards.
Alan’s experience and versatility is in constant demand, whether as a stimulating speaker at business conferences, or as a very funny entertainer on lighter occasions.