While spotlights turn on, screens go up and sound checks run during productions, one role usually remains invisible – yet it is crucial for making everything work. In this interview, Christian Schwarz, Senior AV Dispatcher at Habegger, provides insights into his work behind the scenes. He explains how he keeps track of a huge pool of equipment, coordinates complex logistics processes and steps in exactly when it matters. As a central interface, he ensures that every technical element is in the right place at the right time.
Christian joined Habegger around 15 years ago as a career changer – with a diploma in studio sound engineering, IT experience and a strong enthusiasm for music, technology and live communication.
His first role as an IT & broadcast equipment dispatcher was a perfect fit: technical understanding, a structured way of working and experience from his military service in a material warehouse of the Swiss Army all came together here. Over time, what started as a manageable IT and broadcast equipment pool developed into the entire AV range and a huge, highly complex equipment inventory that is now dispatched by him and his team.
In short: he is the central interface for equipment bookings. The dispatcher ensures that every production receives exactly the equipment it needs – on time, cost-efficiently and reliably.
At Habegger, this is supported by the company’s own equipment pool, which must be used as efficiently as possible. Any additional AV equipment required beyond that is organized by Christian – known as Chrigi – through a strong network of partners, nationally and internationally. Always keeping an eye on the bigger picture and the many projects running simultaneously.
As soon as the specialist planning team orders equipment, the dispatcher becomes involved. He usually works in the background and rarely directly on the production itself. His task is to keep track of the entire equipment logistics and ensure smooth processes.
After the production, the second phase begins: checking returns, monitoring equipment flows and finding missing parts again. Additional responsibilities are also part of the job:
· processing customs documents for international projects
· technical consulting
· maintenance of the item master data in the system
· handling dry-hire requests
· managing used equipment sales
AV dispatching does not only mean planning ahead, but also intervening in real time.
When something changes, something is missing or unexpected problems occur – action is taken.
For Chrigi, a typical working day does not exist. There are quieter phases in which he handles forecasts, research and administrative tasks and peak periods when several trucks leave and return to the warehouse at the same time.
The art lies in maintaining priorities, structure and calm – even under pressure.
f.l.t.r: Chrigi with his team: Sando (Team Leader Materials & Logistics) and Jan Eric (Senior AV Dispatcher)
As the central interface for technical equipment, the AV Dispatcher works with almost all departments at Habegger. Collaboration within the team itself is particularly close: everything is coordinated and shared together with a team colleague and the team leader. A well-established setup built on trust, experience and mutual complementarity.
The most important working tool is the in-house system HIS with a specially developed dispatch tool that has been continuously developed for more than ten years. In addition, Chrigi uses Excel, email, telephone and project management tools – as well as AI tools for research and fact checks. Processes and systems are constantly evolving, and that is exactly what makes the profession exciting for him.
Anyone who wants to become an AV Dispatcher needs one thing above all: an interest in technology. In addition, there is an affinity for numbers, flexibility, enjoyment of complex tasks and a strong thirst for knowledge. Most people enter the field through production or the warehouse, as this is where they come into direct contact with the technology and gain valuable practical experience.
The profession cannot be learned in the classical sense, but develops through experience. And once you are in it, you quickly realize: dispatchers are rare and extremely valuable for companies in the industry.
The necessary balance to the intensive work is provided by his loyal companion: dog Marlo. Morning and evening forest walks together ensure fresh thoughts. Marlo came into Chrigi’s life during the pandemic from a Romanian animal shelter – and today he is not only a constant office companion but a fixed part of his everyday life. A real win-win story.
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