Bristol’s Oscar-winning animation studio Aardman has appointed Sean Clarke to replace co-founder David Sproxton as managing director.
Sean, pictured right, has worked at Aardman for more than 20 years and has headed its international rights and marketing department for 11 years. 
David Sproxton, pictured below, started the business with creative director Peter Lord in 1976 and has helped oversee its rise to become a multi award-winning global entertainment studio encompassing film, TV, video games, attractions, commercial advertising, interactive content and rights and brand development.
The studio has won four Oscars and 14 BAFTAs across its short and feature films with creations ranging from Morph to Shaun the Sheep and Wallace and Gromit.
Aardman became owned by its employees last November when its founders handed over a majority stake in the business to staff in a move designed to ensure it remains independent, and to “secure the creative legacy and culture of the company”.
Mr Sproxton, who will continue to sit on Aardman’s trustee board as well acting as a consultant on a number of projects, said: “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.”
Mr Clarke, who worked in the licensing department at Disney before joining Aardman, said it was “an honour and a privilege” to take up his new role.
He added: “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.”
Aardman co-founder and creative director Peter Lord added: “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.”
Among productions in the pipeline at the studio are Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon and Chicken Run 2.
