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The Bristol-based film and television studio behind much-loved characters Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep has appointed a new managing director.

Sean Clarke will take the head role at Aardman, taking over from David Sproxton who is stepping back after 43 years at the helm of the organisation.

David will continue to be involved with the studio, which became employee owned last year, by sitting on the trustee board as well as applying his film-making experience to a number of projects as a consultant.

Sean said: “It’s an honour to be taking on the MD role and a privilege to be leading Aardman in this exciting new era of employee ownership.

"The studio’s strength has always been in its visionary creativity and storytelling expertise which, combined, mean that we are able to adapt to new platforms and changes in the way we consume entertainment whilst delivering consistently inspiring, funny and engaging animation.

(Image: Hannah Baker)

"Ensuring that our independent spirit and our unique blend of innovation and integrity remain at the heart of everything we do – while nurturing and supporting sensational new creatives alongside our existing roster of incredible talent – will be a guiding principle.”

Sean joined Aardman in 1998 as head of consumer products before becoming head of the international rights and marketing department in 2008.

In that role, he was responsible for global brand development and distribution of Aardman and third-party rights across film, TV, DVD and digital, merchandising and licensing, and themed attractions and live events.

Sean was also involved in developing Aardman’s rights team, which now includes 30 people and works across 170 territories worldwide; the launch of the studio’s YouTube channels; and helping the company diversify into new areas, including the launch of Shaun the Sheep Land which opened in Sweden in 2015.

David added: “We were determined to find the best possible candidate for the role, which is critical for securing the studio’s future especially in its employee owned incarnation.

"I am delighted that Sean cut through very strong competition to take my place. He has a deep understanding of the creative culture at Aardman - which will ensure continuity - in addition to a very strong, clear and exciting strategy to take the company forward, so it will certainly not be resting on its laurels.

"There are wonderful projects on the slate with new creative talent behind them and the future looks very bright. I am more than confident that with Sean leading the executive board the company will thrive.”

Aardman was co-founded by Peter Lord and David Sproxton in 1976 and the company transitioned into employee ownership in November 2018.

(Image: Aardman)

Peter added: “I’m absolutely delighted that Sean Clarke is going to continue his wonderful work at Aardman, following in the footsteps of Dave Sproxton, my long-term partner and co-founder.

"In a rich world of new opportunities, Sean takes the helm of a dynamic, creatively-led company in a very strong position. Not content to rely on our considerable heritage, we are pioneering a slate of the best in animation entertainment and Sean is the perfect candidate to handle its rich diversity and lead us on to ever-greater things.

"Most importantly, along with his expertise in the global marketplace, he brings a deep understanding of the legacy and culture of Aardman. Sean will thrive on the challenge and excitement of leading a company, which is not only dedicated to creativity but also Employee Owned by its incredibly motivated workforce.”

Aardman has a number of new projects about to launch, including A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon, which is opening in UK cinemas on Friday, October 18.

Meanwhile, the studio's 4D immersive experience with brand new characters will open at Efteling: World of Wonders in the Netherlands at the end of November.