Roland founded Contra Vision in 1985 following a distinguished career as a structural and civil engineer. Through his pioneering work, he created the world’s first commercially viable one-way vision graphics technology, underpinned by over 20 patented inventions, enabling images to appear on one side of a window while maintaining visibility from the other. What began as an innovative concept grew into a global industry that transformed advertising, transport, retail and architectural applications worldwide.
Over the past four decades, Roland has played a central role in developing the products, manufacturing methods and commercial frameworks that established one-way vision as a universally recognised technology. Today, perforated window graphics and other see-through visual communications solutions based on his inventions are produced and used around the world.
Roland Hill commented: “It has been an honour to lead Contra Vision and see the business grow from an idea into a global brand. I am proud that my legacy will remain as Contra Vision, and I am excited to see the next stage of the company’s development. I look forward to continuing to support the business in my new capacity as Non-Executive Director.”
As part of the transition, Roger Hill will assume the role of Chairman alongside his existing position as Chief Executive Officer.
Roger Hill commented: “Roland did not simply invent a product, he created an entire global industry.
On behalf of everyone at Contra Vision, I would like to formally thank Roland for his vision, leadership and lifelong commitment to innovation. His work has not only shaped Contra Vision into a globally recognised brand but has also defined and influenced the industry as we know it today.
This transition represents a natural next step for Roland and for the business. As we enter a new financial year following record sales performance, we are excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to building on the strong foundations he has created.”
The announcement comes at a time of significant momentum for Contra Vision and follows Roland’s nomination for the Outstanding Contribution Award at the annual Print Industry Awards, recognising a career that has had a lasting impact on the global print, graphics and visual communications industries.
Since founding Contra Vision more than 40 years ago, Roland’s innovations have been recognised with numerous honours, including the BBC Tomorrow’s World / Prince of Wales Award, three Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, and inclusion in A Hundred Years of British Invention, celebrating some of the UK’s most influential technological achievements.
While stepping down as Chairman, Roland will remain actively involved in the business as Non-Executive Director and Founder, continuing to support Contra Vision’s future growth and innovation.
