Laren Named Managing Dir.
By Robert Goldrich
NEW YORK --Bicoastal Moxie Pictures has extended its reach across the Atlantic, opening a U.K. operation in London under the aegis of managing director Dawn Laren, who comes over from Studio, London, where she served in the same capacity.
The move provides Moxie with a production foothold in Europe, and paves the way for Moxie to secure select jobs from U.K. agencies for its entire roster of directors, except for Martin Granger who already has U.K. representation via Bikini Films, London.
Director Dan Levinson, a Moxie founder, related that setting up a company operation “across the pond” made more sense than linking with an established production house in the U.K. “Our directors enjoy working with us and we wanted to ensure that same relationship and environment for our projects overseas.” He noted that securing Laren was key given her homegrown reputation and connections in the U.K. market.
“Our goal,” stated Laren, “is critical acclaim and growing a vibrant and exciting domestic concern with both local and non-U.K. talent that is absolutely accepted within the London community.”
Moxie president Robert Fernandez described Moxie/London as being “the next step in the development and evolution of the Moxie brand.” He added that Moxie’s directorial roster has generated high demand internationally. “We recognize the importance of the market in the global commercial production community,” said Fernandez, “and we want to be a part of it.”
While its mainstay business is commercialmaking, Moxie has also branched out into branded entertainment, as chronicled in SHOOT. The company has a working relationship with IMAX to produce a documentary film centered on this year’s Volvo Ocean Race, a competition that spans the globe. Moxie is also teaming with Glamour magazine on “Reel Moments,” which entails the making of up to four short films based on real-life experiences of the publication’s readers (SHOOT, 2/25, p. 1).The Many Hires Jeremiah Wassom As Group Creative Director
Independent agency The Many has added Jeremiah Wassom as group creative director.
Wassom most recently worked a decade at Deutsch LA where, as SVP/creative director, he led the Taco Bell account and won new business for the agency. His agency past also includes AKQA and TBWAChiatDay. His creative work has touched the QSR, video games, automotive, fashion, and culture brand sectors. He also served eight years with the United States Marine Corps.
“Throughout his career, Jeremiah has helmed work that has not only made me personally jealous but has consistently pushed brands to show up in memorable and innovative ways,” said Josh Paialii, head of creative at The Many. “One look at his body of work and you will see his passion for storytelling and craft has raised the bar for entire categories, driving participation with many brands’ most loyal fans. Beyond being a world-class creative director and maker, Wassom is a proven team player and strategic thought leader. He’ll be a great addition to the leadership team at The Many working across all accounts. His role will be immediately felt as he guides and supports each of the creative leads in the department.”
A 20-year creative with agency, brand, and freelance experience, Wassom has forged a creative approach which focuses on crafting engaging connections rather than simply make ads. He sees the need for advertising to mean more, not simply do more.
The Many believes that true business growth is made possible by harnessing the power of participation and partners with brands to forge deeper connections with consumers, cultivate trust and loyalty, and maximize marketing spend and execution. The agency is built around a flexible model that offers a suite of capabilities, including... Read More