Cinesite Studios announced the appointment of Tara Kemes as General Manager of its feature animation operation in Vancouver. Taking over from Nicole Stinn, Kemes will be responsible for the overall management of the studio, utilizing her years of industry experience to help Cinesite execute its high-quality production commitments (such as MGM’s The Addams Family) and continue to expand its profile within British Columbia. Kemes will report directly to Cinesite Group CEO Antony Hunt.
“In a very short time, Cinesite Studios has made a real commitment to the feature animation business by bringing world-class creative leadership and artists into its studios,” Kemes commented. “I feel privileged to join the growing team in Vancouver at such an exciting time as they take on top-tier projects, and I look forward to creating a fulfilling and supportive environment for all and playing a key role in the studio’s continuing success.”
Like many in the Vancouver animation industry, Kemes began her career at Mainframe (now Wow Unlimited’s Rainmaker). She honed her leadership skills working as a recruitment manager for video game companies including Relic Ent. and Nexon before rejoining Rainmaker in 2009 to build the team for its first animated feature, Escape from Planet Earth. Kemes remained at Rainmaker until 2017, progressing to the role of VF, Culture & Talent and spearheading the company’s workplace community-building, and the development and expansion of its creative and technical teams. Kemes’ commitment to nurturing the talent extends to her part-time teaching at the Vancouver Film School.
“We are delighted to have Tara join us,” said Cinesite Group CEO Antony Hunt. “She will be instrumental in spearheading our expansion and throughput of exciting animated projects at our Vancouver studio. Tara’s extensive operational experience and instincts for developing talent strikes that special leadership balance; I know that we’re going to benefit greatly from having her on board to continue our focus on the needs of our clients and crew.”
