Lighthouse Studios Taps New MD

Lighthouse Studios, the joint animation venture formed by Mercury Filmworks and Cartoon Saloon, has hired Claire Finn as managing director.

Finn most recently served as head of content/executive producer for branded entertainment at London-based Firecracker Films. She will now be responsible for growing Lighthouse Studios’ development commitments and expanding production projects, focusing on high-quality children’s and family animated content as well as increasing the studio’s global production services clients.

Mercury Filmworks CEO Clint Eland said, “Claire brings a wealth of experience in content development, production, design and the management of artists, all of which will benefit Lighthouse Studios in growing its pipeline. She is a talented creative executive and producer who has demonstrated a keen acumen for strategic planning across all media platforms. We are very excited to hand her the reins of the studio. Lighthouse Studio will go forward in very capable hands.”

Cartoon Saloon CEO Paul Young added, “After taking a considerable amount of time to find the right person to lead Lighthouse, we are delighted to be able to introduce Claire to our friends and partners in the Animation industry. Lighthouse now can continue with confidence to create a truly creative studio and contribute to making Kilkenny a center of excellence in animation Production, drawing talent from all over the world.”

Finn commented, “Lighthouse Studios is comprised of a truly high-caliber and international team who share a passion for animation, technology and creating amazing entertainment experiences, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to be able to return to Ireland after 23 years away to work with Paul, Clint and the crew on expanding this global-facing company.”