Mel Sullivan to succeed Sir William Sargent as Framestore CEO

She takes over from CEO of 26 years Sir William Sargent who is stepping down to focus on the wider Framestore Company 3 Group. Framestore acquired Company 3 and Method in November 2020.

Sullivan has been with Framestore since 1998, most recently serving as the company’s chief operating officer. She began her career in finance and corporate brokerage.

The new role will see her increase her focus on the company’s strategic direction, with new group CFO Claire Price taking on the day-to-day financial responsibilities for both Framestore and Company 3 as of July 1.

Framestore said that Sullivan had played a pivotal role in growing the company from its London roots and a staff of 150 to a global company with eight offices across four continents and a headcount of some 3,000 artists, producers and technologists.

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Sullivan said: “I’ve been constantly amazed by the people here and what they do, and it’s my absolute pleasure to be playing an even bigger part in Framestore’s story as we move forward. I’m 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.”

“Framestore has grown and evolved in startling ways since we started the company with five people and a big idea,” says Sir William Sargent. “From ad spots and pop promos for David Bowie and Madonna we’ve 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.”

Sullivan will be supported in her new role by Fiona Walkinshaw, who takes on the role of chief executive officer, film & episodic and Charles Howell, who will serve as Framestore’s president, global advertising and content.