Chris Murphy, President

Chris has a Bachelor of Science in Radio and Television and a minor in Journalism from San Diego State University. After working in the publishing business, he moved to Central Florida to try the family business for "one year" -- in 1988. Running sales for Central and South Florida, Chris specified, sold and managed many projects, including major convention centers, hotel ballrooms, themed rides and attractions, theatres, television studios, schools and houses of worship. Chris purchased the company in 2003 and opened an office in California in 2004. He is a member of IESNA, TEA and ESTA and has won several awards, including at TEA award for the Revenge of the Mummy attraction at Universal Orlando in 2004. He continues to grow Murphy Lighting while ensuring that the company maintains the quality for which it is known. Chris plays guitar and bagpipes and also enjoys reading, boating and enjoying his free time with his wife and two children and the family's many friends.

Gene Murphy, VP of Business Development

Gene founded the predecessor to Murphy Lighting Systems in 1979 as a representative specialist for Television lighting systems. Within a short time, he also began specifying and selling Theatrical and Architectural lighting control systems in the Southeastern United States. In the early to mid 1980's, Gene was the head of Sales for several companies, including Strand Lighting. In the late 1980's, he reacquired Murphy Associates, now representing several lines in the Southeastern U.S. and the Caribbean. In the 1990's and into the 2000's, Gene and his son, Chris, transitioned the company into a dealership and leading systems integration firm. By 1995, the name changed to Murphy Lighting Systems. After selling the company to Chris in 2003, Gene became Vice President of Business Development, continuing to service his key accounts while developing strategic plans for continued growth of the company while developing strategic plans for continued growth of the company, including increasing the number of national accounts and identifying leading edge equipment and new markets.

Jenni Rule

Chris' Assistant

Jenni moved to the Orlando area in 2004. She has 8 years of customer service and office administration experience. Jenni joined Murphy Lighting in February 2008 as sales administrative assistant and transitioned to Chris Murphy's assistant. She handles Chris' phone traffic, assists with quotations and structures and expedites orders.

Jeanine Sullivan

Customer Service / Sales Support

Jeanine, a native Floridian, joined Murphy Lighting in March 2008 as Gene Murphy's assistant. She has 6 years of customer service and office administration experience. Jeanine handles phone traffic, assists with quotations and structures and expedites orders.

Debbie Chappell

Full-charge Bookkeeper

Debbie Chappell and husband Jeff are originally from southern Maine and have lived in Orlando since 1999. With over 25 years of experience, Debbie has worked in many management and accounting positions in small and medium-sized companies. Her diverse background includes CPA firms, real estate development and various construction industries. In 2002 Debbie joined Murphy Lighting Systems as Full-charge Bookkeeper.

Jim Radford

Service Technician

Jim moved from Seattle to Orlando after 16 years with The Boeing Company. Jim was involved with theater in high school and became involved with local theatre in Orlando. His technical experience includes radio broadcasting and has been a licensed Amateur Radio Operator for more than 15 years. Since joining Murphy Lighting Systems, he has attended technical training specific to products serviced by Murphy Lighting Systems. His duties include phone support for service and parts, handling traffic for repairs, intelligent lighting fixture repairs and field service. Jim attended the University of Central Florida, studying General Studies, Business, Sociology and Criminal Justice.

Lane Williams

Service Technician

Lane joined Murphy Lighting in 2009 after working at another dealership/service center for more than three years. He brings to MLS extensive experience with current and legacy Strand products, as well as many other brands of equipment. He is factory certified by Strand Lighting. Lane is experienced in energy and building management systems. Lane started working in theater in high school doing audio and lighting. He started his professional career at a Cincinnati based radio station as a technician and a IT Administrator. He then worked at Kings Island as an Animatronics Technician for 3 years gaining valuable experience in large-scale control and A/V distribution systems. He has worked on many different projects including assistant lighting director for a Columbus TV program that was awarded a Regional Emmy.

Randy Watson

Service Technician

Randy grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and his first words were "Plug it in, Plug it in!" His parents knew then that he was destined for an "electrifying" career. However, it wasn't until High School that Randy discovered his true passion for theatrical and architectural lighting systems. In 2006, Randy moved to Orlando from the University of Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music, where he was studying Theater Design and Production. He decided to pursue a degree in Show Production and Touring at Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL. While at Full Sail, Randy added "Live" lighting and A/V systems to his repertoire, including large scale automated moving light systems, digital media servers, and large scale video distribution. Randy then received his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University, with an emphasis in Project and Team Management. As the newest member of the team, Randy is excited to share his passion for lighting, and his diverse background with the Murphy "family".