Sony-Owned VFX Studio Pixomondo Sets New Business Development Heads in Europe, U.S. (EXCLUSIVE)

Sony Pictures-owned VFX studio Pixomondo has set its new heads of business development in Europe and North America.

The pre-production, virtual production and visual effects studio has upped Michelle Martin to lead in Europe and Naomi Foakes in the U.S. The company, which has worked on series including “The Penguin” and the new season of “House of the Dragon,” boasts seven studios and three LED volumes in the U.S., U.K., Germany and Canada

Martin has over 20 years of experience in the industry. Before joining the company in 2023, she established and led FrameStore’s TV division before moving to Milk VFX as chief business development officer. As head of European business development, Martin will lead initiatives to strengthen Pixomondo’s presence in the region as well as its relationships with its clients. The appointment of a business development head in Europe marks a new frontier in the company’s plans to expand its footprint in the region.

Foakes is an experienced VFX and animation exec of over 15 years. She previously worked at Mr. X as global resources manager, overseeing a diverse range of projects as well as planning across three offices consisting of 800 artists. She joined Pixomondo in 2021, moving from strategic planning/bidding to now leading the business development team. Her promotion is key to the company’s growing ambitions in North America.

The duo will work alongside PXO Clara’s head of business development Joe Finlayson and group head of business development Alex Webster.

“We are thrilled to elevate Michelle and Naomi to these important roles,” said CEO Jonny Slow. “Their leadership will be instrumental in driving PXO’s growth and reinforcing our position as a leader in the industry.”