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Facial animation firm Image Metrics has restructured its business into two units dedicated to video games and the film/TV market respectively.
Image Metrics COO Kelvin Duckett has been promoted to become general manager of the film group, while former Havok sales executive Brian Waddle is to join as general manager of the games team. Duckett and Waddle’s newly-created roles will see them work directly with CEO Mike Starkenburg to expand business operations in their respective markets.
"With leading visual effects companies and game developers outsourcing key production components to specialized experts like Image Metrics, demand for our facial animation solutions has been increasing in both the video game and film industries," said Starkenburg.
"As a result, Image Metrics is organizing its expertise and resources into two divisions to best serve the unique needs of each market. This will ensure we can continue to efficiently deliver outstanding animation and significant return on investment to our growing customer base."
"At Havok, I experienced the difference great technology can make in helping game development teams turn good games into successful titles," added Waddle.
"Image Metrics is a rising star with outstanding potential to innovate the game development industry. With many notable projects including Midnight Club LA, facial animation for the Rock Band 2 cinematic and Grand Theft Auto IV among its achievements in the past year, the Company is at an exciting stage in its evolution. I look forward to expanding our contributions to the games industry in my new role as General Manager of the division."
