Framestore, the visual effects specialist, has announced founding member and current CEO Sir William Sargent will step down from his position, being replaced with new CEO Mel Sullivan. Sargent will transition from the role after 26 years of leading the company to focus on the wider Framestore Company 3 Group.
Sullivan has worked at Framestore since 1998, most recently as the company’s COO. Her new role will see Sullivan focus more on the company’s strategic direction alongside new group CFO Claire Price who takes on everyday financial responsibilities for both Framestore and Company 3 as of 1 July.
“From day one I always felt like Framestore had a rare, lightning-in-a-bottle quality as a company,” says Sullivan. “I think it stems from a unique mixture of creativity, collaboration and boldness of vision – it sets our work apart and it sets our people apart, and it is something we have been keen to hold onto throughout the integration of studios in Montreal, Vancouver and Melbourne, the growth of our Mumbai studio and the strides we are making in fields like realtime, machine learning and virtual production.
Company loyalty
Sullivan commenced her career in finance and corporate brokerage, developing her business acumen and gaining a deep understanding of investor relations and the corporate landscape. Since joining Framestore over two decades ago, she has been a pivotal figure in growing the company from its London roots.
The company’s payroll has grown from a staff of 150 to a multinational company with eight offices across four continents and a headcount of 3,000.
The company says its new CEO has a thorough understanding of Framestore’s operations, its stakeholders and creative culture, and comes to the role with a keen strategic focus.
“I have been constantly amazed by the people here and what they do, and it is my absolute pleasure to be playing an even bigger part in Framestore’s story as we move forward. I am grateful to William for his ongoing support, and to an incredible management team whose diligence and expertise have helped so much on this ongoing journey,” Sullivan adds.
Continuing growth
Sargent adds: “Framestore has grown and evolved in startling ways since we started the company with five people and a big idea. From ad spots and pop promos for David Bowie and Madonna, we have moved into blockbuster franchises, tentpole episodic productions and landmark theme park installations.
“In less than five years the company has doubled in size and expanded into three new territories, so it definitely feels like Mel is taking the reins at another pivotal stage of the company’s evolutionary growth.
“I have absolutely no doubt that under her stewardship we will see the company continue its ambitious trajectory.”
Other promotions include CEO for film & episodic, Fiona Walkinshaw and president for global advertising and content, Charles Howell. Kamen Markov was last week announced as creative director of its London advertising team.
Amongst Framestore’s recent projects, the firm created an immersive space journey experience for Dubai’s Museum of the Future, which opened this year.
