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Katherine Sarafian
Senior Vice President, Talent and Producer, Pixar Animation Studios
Katherine Sarafian is a prominent figure in the animation industry, currently serving as the Senior Vice President of Talent at Pixar Animation Studios. She has been with Pixar since 1994 and has played a crucial role in the development of many iconic animated films.
Educational Background
Katherine Sarafian earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Master of Arts in Film and Television Critical Studies from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Her education laid the foundation for her successful career in film production and talent management.
Career at Pixar
Sarafian began her career at Pixar as a production coordinator on the studio's first feature film, Toy Story. Over the years, she has held various positions, including:
- Production Manager on A Bug's Life
- Director of Marketing
- Production Supervisor on Monsters, Inc.
- Production Manager on The Incredibles
She produced the Academy Award-winning film Brave and was also involved in producing the short film Lifted .1234 Her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping Pixar's talent acquisition strategies and fostering a creative environment for animators and storytellers.
Contributions and Recognition
Sarafian is recognized not only for her production work but also for her commitment to education and outreach. She has represented Pixar in various educational initiatives across Asia, Europe, and the United States .2 Additionally, she is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the Producers Guild of America, reflecting her influence and standing within the industry .3
Personal Life
Katherine Sarafian is of Armenian descent and has been active in her community. She lives in Oakland, California, with her husband, Meher Gourjian, a visual effects specialist, and they have two sons .4 Her upbringing in a religious household has influenced her leadership style, emphasizing empathy and understanding .3
Overall, Katherine Sarafian's extensive experience and dedication to nurturing talent have made her a respected leader at Pixar Animation Studios.
