Mono-monikered director Otis has joined the spot roster of Los Angeles-based Trio Films. He comes over from The Artists Company where he earned inclusion into SHOOT‘s 2009 New Directors Showcase.
Otis is known for his distinct documentary style in commercials, PSAs and music videos that have featured celebrities as well as real people. His recent work includes: Neutrogena’s Skin ID campaign with Hayden Panattiere through N.Y. agency Roberts + Langer, a campaign he was invited back to direct two years in a row; Dove’s “Movement for Self-Esteem” advocacy campaign; and the “Made in New York” campaign for the NYC Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting.
Currently Otis is prepping a series of short films for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to showcase how various underprivileged communities are fighting obesity and smoking. Out of Ogilvy in Washington, D.C., the campaign is being shot in various cities across the U.S.
A graduate of NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Otis cut his teeth in the spot world with assistant editing and motion graphics work before landing at The Artists Company. Starting out with music videos, Otis eventually found his calling in commercials.
Trio is headed by founders/owner Taylor Ferguson and Erin Tauscher. Otis comes aboard a directorial roster than includes Todd Field, Ramaa Mosley, Jackie Oudney, Bob Rice, and James Weitz.
Kari Grubin To Become First Woman President Of The Hollywood Professional Association
Kari Grubin will succeed Seth Hallen as president of the Hollywood Professional Association (HPA) on January 1, 2025.
When Hallen passes HPA leadership to Grubin, the organization marks a noteworthy milestone in its history as she becomes the first woman to hold the HPA presidency and only its third president since the organization’s founding, following Hallen and HPA founder Leon Silverman. A recognized expert in technology, consultative expertise and postproduction services, Grubin possesses the experience and vision to help drive HPA through the next phase of the industry’s evolution.
“I am truly honored and excited to be part of the leadership team of this great organization that means so much to me, and I will bring my passion and experience to this responsibility,” said HPA president-elect Grubin. “Now more than ever, HPA is a critical and hyper-relevant partner for the individuals and companies at work in our industry as we face the significant change, challenge and opportunity ahead. HPA will continue to be a conduit for our community to grow, reach out for new opportunities and adapt. I’m assuming the leadership of a thriving organization, and I look forward to shepherding it through its next powerful new phase. I encourage our community to join us in the work ahead and look forward to the upcoming collaboration.”
Hallen and Grubin will work closely over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition. A dedicated HPA Board member since 2020, Grubin has spearheaded several of HPA’s most impactful initiatives. She co-founded HPA Women in Post (2011) which provides leadership opportunities and visibility for women working in professional content creation. Under the leadership of Grubin and fellow board member Loren... Read More