AFX Creative, an independent studio that specializes in VFX, design/motion, color and editorial services for advertising and entertainment, has expanded its leadership team and hired systems engineer and administrator Toby Gallo to serve as its new Director of Technology.
AFX Creative also announced today the promotions of Esther Minitser to Head of Production, Jessica Amburgey to Senior Colour Producer, and Stefan Kim to Production Coordinator. The announcements were made by Mark Leiss, AFX Creative Founder and Managing Director. “We’re proud to hire the best in the industry while also growing and developing talent from within our company,” Mark said.
With more than 25 years of technology experience in network design, implementation and support, Toby Gallo most recently worked at Shed, where he oversaw systems and network administration and periphery management. Previously, he’s also worked for companies such as Technicolor, Warner Bros, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Digiscope, Nickelodeon, Gradient Effects, and World Wide Broadcasting. Toby is well known for his work on innovative pipelines and render farm systems in the long-form episodic world.
“Toby brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and a unique strategic vision to AFX Creative that will carry us forward as we continue to adapt to an ever-changing landscape,” Mark said.
“AFX is a technology forward company,” Toby said. “We plan to take it to the next level, implementing the latest in virtualised systems and remote workflows, ultimately allowing AFX to service our clients’ needs and beyond.”
Toby Gallo, Director of Technology
Esther Minitser has been named AFX Creative’s Head of Production. She was promoted from within the company and most recently served as VFX Producer for the past three years. Minitser has been with AFX Creative since 2015. A recent graduate from the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School in California, she applies that knowledge to her day-to-day work.
Jessica Amburgey has been named Senior Colour Producer. She joined AFX Creative in October 2020 as a Colour Producer. Previously, she served in a similar capacity at The Mill in Culver City, CA. Stefan Kim has been named Production Coordinator. He first joined in June 2018 and had been Head of Client Services.
“I'm proud to promote Esther, Jessica and Stefan to their new roles,” Mark said. “They each possess a unique set of skills, and I look forward to their continued contributions and insights.”
Toby Gallo says he is looking forward to optimising AFX Creative’s existing infrastructure, and focusing on improving its CGI and finishing. “I’m excited to introduce more automation and cloud-based services, and explore and deploy more virtualised production, whether it’s building custom LED walls or implementing the latest real-time render engines,” Toby said. “AFX will continue to be a leader in the industry, demonstrating the ability and willingness to adapt and utilize the latest developments.” afx.tv
