Outpost VFX to launch in London, Matchett at helm

Bournemouth-based Outpost VFX is to launch a London studio and has announced former MPC Film head of production Rachel Matchett as Head of Studio, UK.

Matchett joins from Technicolor where she spent over five years as Global Head of Production at MPC Film. She will split her time between Outpost’s Bournemouth office and its new studio space in London.

Outpost’s London studio will be its fourth physical facility to date, following the launches of Montreal in 2019 and Los Angeles earlier in 2021. The London studio will host artists and production teams to work in tandem with Outpost’s Bournemouth facility on UK-incentivised productions.

Matchett said: “I’m very excited to be joining such a vibrant and dynamic studio, particularly at a time of substantial growth. I want to be instrumental in bringing Outpost’s values and culture to life in London. The ambitious plans of the studio are also felt through the artists who are not only talented and passionate, but genuinely want to come into work every day.

“I want to come in and futureproof the company’s processes, but also its culture as it continues to expand. My ambition is to help scale the team, propagate the Outpost culture and provide good structures that will marry happily with Outpost’s values as it continues to be a positive force in the VFX industry.”

Over a long career in visual effects Matchett has been instrumental in leading large teams delivering triple-A productions, including most recently as Co-President of Ghost VFX. At Outpost, Matchett will oversee UK operations while working closely in tandem with teams in Montreal, Los Angeles and Asia to enhance Outpost’s approach to global production and will focus on offering in-person client service in London.

Matchett’s appointment comes following a significant growth period for Outpost during which it has expanded to over 300 people.

Gez Hixson, COO of Outpost, said: “Rachel is the perfect example of an experienced leader who sees immense value in what we’re trying to achieve, both in our ambition to create the most balanced and supportive environment in VFX and also our creative aspirations. We couldn’t be happier to welcome her to the team and can feel her positive influence already.

“In the last nine months we’ve tripled in size, so it’s important that as we grow, we introduce experienced and empathetic leaders like Rachel across our facilities to help us to stay true to our values and simultaneously deliver seamless work globally. We look forward to bringing our approach to London and its vibrant VFX community”