Animal Logic appoints Sharon Taylor as incoming CEO to succeed Zareh Nalbandian

Zareh Nalbandian, CEO and founder of Australian animation studio Animal Logic, has confirmed his succession strategy with chief operating officer Sharon Taylor taking the helm in September, when he will step down from his leadership role.

Sharon Taylor

Taylor will be co-CEO with Nalbandian until his departure. Nalbandian said: “For almost 20 years, Sharon has contributed to Animal Logic’s success and I’m confident that her leadership will ensure the studio continues to grow and innovate in the animation space for years to come.”

The founder, who has helmed the studio through global expansion and the acquisition of the studio by Netflix last year for an estimated A$700m (US$480m), will remain in the industry concentrating on production. He retains control of production companies Animal Logic Entertainment and Truant Pictures, which is run by his son Toby Nalbandian and Greg Schmidt, who serve as VPs of development and production based in LA.

“I’m excited about my next chapter and I look forward to continuing to support the screen sector in Australia and beyond, and focusing on producing and developing compelling stories with Animal Logic Entertainment and Truant Pictures,” Nalbandian said.

Taylor described Nalbandian as an innovator and inspiration: “For over 30 years, Zareh has pushed the boundaries of filmmaking, creating a strong foundation for us all to build upon. I’m honoured to continue championing Animal Logic’s unique culture, pursuit of excellence, and history as a leading animation studio,” she said.

In July last year, Netflix revealed it would be acquiring Animal Logic to support its animated film slate and accelerate the buildout of Netflix’s end-to-end animation production capabilities. Animal Logic’s headquarters remain in Sydney with headcount expected to be increased in the year ahead, and the studio has operations in Vancouver and LA.