Animated Answers: Junior to Senior

Tuesday 11 Nov 2025 - 10:30
Anthony Burgess Foundation
Runtime: 75 mins (approx.)

Moving from junior to senior roles can feel like a big leap, especially when you don't know where to go next. This panel brings together industry professionals and recruiters who know what to look for when studios are promoting talent. This session will explore ways to build skills and where to spot opportunities - it's full of honest insights that'll help you stand out when the time comes to step up. Join us as we explore how to climb the animation career ladder, and not get stuck on the junior rung.

This event is supported by:

Guests

George Pembrey

George Pembrey is a Production Manager at Locksmith Animation, currently overseeing production on Bad Fairies with Warner Bros. His career spans visual effects and feature animation, from working in VFX departments on Disney’s The Jungle Book and Pirates of the Caribbean: Salazar’s Revenge, to animation production on Sherlock Gnomes, Netflix’s That Christmas, and Locksmith’s debut feature Ron’s Gone Wrong. Alongside his production work, George has an original animated feature in development and is writing a middle-grade novel.

Jess Thornton

Jess is the Studio Coordinator at Wild Child Animation, where she supports the team and helps drive recruitment, training and outreach projects. Her role spans everything from welcoming new talent into the studio to coordinating creative workshops and industry collaborations.

Kara Oropallo

Vice President, Crew Development at DNEG Animation. Kara is a key figure of the studio's leadership team, with a true passion for connecting animation artists and managers with the tools and networks they need to succeed professionally. She is responsible for the employee journey at DNEG Animation, from outreach and recruitment through to training, resourcing, and performance management. In addition to her many years at DreamWorks Animation in production, Kara has trained and consulted on projects for Netflix Animation, Skydance Animation, Paramount Animation, Reel FX Animation, and Mikros Animation.