Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Websites
Affiliations
Film Projects
Timeline
Generic

JAMES KNIGHT

Los Angeles,CA

Summary

Media & Entertainment Technology Executive with over 20 years of experience driving strategic partnerships and technological advancements across the media landscape. Expert in bridging technology with studio needs to revolutionize production processes and maximize revenue opportunities. Proven track record in pioneering the use of AMD technology in major studios, significantly enhancing their computational capabilities for high-profile films, including Avatar. Adept in negotiating high-stake contracts and fostering relationships that yield long-term benefits for all stakeholders.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Global Media & Entertainment Director

AMD
09.2014 - Current
  • Led development and execution of comprehensive sales strategy in media and entertainment sector, transforming AMD’s market presence and driving strategic partnerships, resulting in over $500 million in generated revenue
  • Pioneered introduction and market adoption of AMD CPUs within media and entertainment industry, boosting sector’s use from zero to 40% market share, with ThreadRipper CPU becoming global leader in media and entertainment workstations
  • Engineered strategic sales initiatives and partnerships with key industry players such as Disney, Pixar, ILM, and Universal, significantly advancing AMD's technological footprint and market share in industry
  • Successful organizer in series of industry events and awards, including The Creator, VES awards, Arts and Science Fair with Pixar, and The View Conference, speaking on panels as industry expert
  • Actively contributed as member of prestigious industry bodies including AMPAS, BAFTA, and VES, leveraging these associations to forge strategic alignments that enhanced AMD’s sales and visibility across media landscape
  • Technologically facilitated series of projects, including Elemental – Pixar, Avatar 2 – Weta, Anything Star Wars – ILM/Lucasfilm, DNEG, and Epic Games
  • Established strong OEM manufacturer relationships including Lenovo, Super Micro, HPE, and Dell, leveraging strong media and entertainment relationships to develop custom technology solutions to improve compute power for feature films and monetization for partners across other industries
  • Partnered with media & entertainment studios including Disney, Pixar, ILM, Universal, Dreamworks, WETA, Fox, and Universal to enable studio technology advancement
  • Leveraged successes within media and entertainment industry to advance additional industry vertical revenue including expanding to Google and Wells Fargo
  • Collaborated with studios and VFX companies to introduce new technologies and innovations, such as EPYC and ThreadRipper, to industry.

Virtual Production Consultant/ Performance Capture

Self-employeed
01.2010 - 01.2014

Collaborated with top studios, producers, and VFX artists to educate and implement cutting-edge Virtual Production techniques developed for Avatar, revolutionizing th industry

  • Provided expert consultation to studios, optimizing their project media management procedures for all types of media and shot management
  • Led and supervised performance capture for highly successful film, The Amazing Spider-Man
  • Worked with prestigious clients such as Mark Burnett Theatrical, The Third Floor, Warner Bros, Double Helix Games, Square Enix, and many more.

Project Manager/Producer

Giant Studios
01.2006 - 01.2010
  • Successfully produced performance capture projects for blockbuster films such as Avatar, I Am Legend, and Prince Caspian, ensuring smooth execution and delivery of high-quality motion and shots
  • Coordinated and supervised performance capture post and production crew, ensuring seamless collaboration and timely completion of tasks
  • Cultivated and nurtured relationships with major studios and producers, establishing reputation for reliability and professionalism in industry.

Post Production Supervisor

Crawford Post Production
01.2003 - 01.2006

Supervised multiple facets of post-production for features and television at largest Post Production facility in Southeast, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows

  • Managed development of company by expanding client base through connection building with prestigious names like Warner Bros, Lionsgate, and ABC.

General Manager, VFX Producer

CinePost
01.2001 - 01.2003
  • Managed team of post-production staff, ensuring efficient workflow and high-quality output
  • Spearheaded development of innovative DVD menu techniques, enhancing user experience and navigation
  • Oversaw post production process for diverse range of projects, including indie films, music videos, and DVD projects, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction
  • Successfully expanded business to include feature films and national television projects, increasing revenue and market presence.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Finance

Berrry College
Atlanta, GA
07.1995

Websites

Affiliations

  • Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS/Oscars), 2020, Active Member, Scientific & Technical Achievement Committee, 2010, 2015
  • British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), 2010, Member
  • Visual Effects Society (VES), 2011, Member

Film Projects

  • Avatar, 20th Century Fox/Lightstorm Ent.
  • The Amazing Spiderman, Columbia Pictures
  • The Incredible Hulk, Universal Studios/Marvel/R&A
  • Terminator Dark Fate, Paramount
  • Hereafter, Warner Bros./Kennedy Marshall
  • Prince Caspian, Walt Disney Pictures/Walden Media
  • I Am Legend, Sony Pictures Imageworks

Timeline

Global Media & Entertainment Director

AMD
09.2014 - Current

Virtual Production Consultant/ Performance Capture

Self-employeed
01.2010 - 01.2014

Project Manager/Producer

Giant Studios
01.2006 - 01.2010

Post Production Supervisor

Crawford Post Production
01.2003 - 01.2006

General Manager, VFX Producer

CinePost
01.2001 - 01.2003

Bachelor of Science - Finance

Berrry College
JAMES KNIGHT