Animation studio Laika’s chief marketing officer David Burke has added chief operating officer to his responsibilities at the company. Burke joined Laika in 2019 from Universal Pictures, where he had been general manager for the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland since 2006. The promotion was announced today by Travis Knight, president, and CEO, to whom Burke will continue to report.
“Dave is a bold, forward-thinking leader and an all-around terrific guy,” said Knight. “He has become an indelible part of Laika’s story. Dave’s exceptional thoughtfulness, creativity, and discernment make him uniquely suited to steer our studio into the future. Partnering with Dave has been a joy, and together we wholeheartedly believe Laika’s finest chapters are ahead of us.”
Burke's role at Laika has expanded to encompass all aspects of the company’s operations activities while remaining the lead on brand marketing and film promotions. As a key member of the executive team, he is also involved in developing Laika's Live Action strategy.
"I am thrilled to take on the expanded role of chief marketing and operations officer at Laika,” said Burke. “I am grateful to our CEO Travis Knight for his leadership and trust in me to help drive the company's mission forward. Our team of talented colleagues is second to none, and I am excited to continue working alongside them in this new capacity. Together we will continue to build on Laika's legacy of creating singular and original stories that entertain and inspire audiences worldwide."
Laika is responsible for a string of successful animated films including Coraline, ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, Kubo and the Two Strings, Missing Link and Wildwood (in production).