Susan Thurmond O’Neal has worked in the Visual Effects Industry for over fifteen years building teams, tracking progress, inspiring artistry and liaising with high profile clients.

For the past few years, she served as an Account Manager at Side Effects Software, Inc., which provides emerging technologies to the CG industry. Previous to Side Effects Software, Susan worked for R!OT Pictures as Head of Production, managing artists, producers and clients. She has worked with Digital Domain, A52, creo collective, Zoic Studios, Radium FX and GMFX and other companies over the course of her career.

Susan has worked on teams that have produced such films and projects as T2:3D - Battle Across Time, Titanic, The Italian Job, West Wing, Six Feet Under and a host of commercials. 

Susan’s wealth of industry experience will help keep Escape Studios US operations running smoothly and ensure that our new students have an amazing experience at our new school and beyond—into the world of VFX production.

Susan sits on the Board of Directors for the Visual Effects Society as an Alternate, and is Co-Chair of the Visual Effects Society's Education Committee.