PPDS announced the unexpected death of Martijn van der Woude, vice president of global business development and marketing. He died of cardiac arrest on April 21.

Van der Woude joined PPDS in 2019, bringing more than 25 years of experience in business development, sales, marketing and general management. Prior to joining the company, he served as co-founder and CEO of a Hong Kong- and China-based dvLED manufacturer for the global sports, media and events markets. Before his decade in Asia, he founded and led a Dutch-based international software and consultancy firm.

Widely known in the AV industry as an entrepreneurial enabler, Van der Woude was also a passionate advocate for sustainability. He helped steer PPDS’ environmental strategies and push for more eco-conscious product solutions.

In a statement, PPDS described Van der Woude as “a colleague, a dear friend, and a true business leader” who had been “an intrinsic, highly regarded and respected member” of the PPDS and wider TPV Technology teams.

“He will be remembered as a transformational and entrepreneurial enabler — a champion in the AV community globally,” the company said.

The rAVe [PUBS] team extends its deepest sympathies to the PPDS team and to Van der Woude’s family during this time. Many on our team had the opportunity to work with Martijn over the years, including during interviews and industry events. His kindness, professionalism and generous spirit left a lasting impression.

Outside of work, Van der Woude was a devoted husband and father and an avid pilot.

“Our thoughts are with all in Martijn’s family,” the PPDS statement said.