With contract negotiations coming to an impasse with company owner and board chairman Phil Knight, Jeff Farnath, ceo of Vinton Studios, will be leaving the Portland, Ore.-based animation house. Bob Harold, a Vinton board member and 18-year Nike Inc. finance exec, will act as interim CEO until Farnath can find a permanent replacement. Farnath will remain under contract with the house as a consultant.
In making the announcement, Knight said, "Jeff has made a significant contribution to the continued success of this company. His stewardship and vision have allowed the Studio to secure its future in the animated feature film business, fortify its position as a leading producer of animated commercials, and attract the very best talent in the industry. We will continue to rely on his input as a valued consultant."
"It's been an honor to guide the Studio through this exciting and challenging period in its history," said Farnath. "I'm very proud of what we've accomplished over the past four years and I know that the extraordinarily talented people at this company will continue to create great work."
He joined the company in 2000 as cfo and was named ceo in fall 2001.
Vinton Studios is a leading producer of animated commercials and shorts, including long-running and iconic campaigns. For more information, visit www.vintonstudios.com.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
