Pitch Black named Manuel Ramrez president of Spanish VFX house El Ranchito, passing the leadership reins from co-founder Flix Bergs, who will transition to an advisory role while continuing to support the companys development and strategic direction. Pitch Black is the parent company of leading visual effects studios FuseFX, FOLKS, Rising Sun Pictures, and El Ranchito.In his new role Ramrez will manage the studio's daily operations and promote Spain globally as a central hub for visual effects. The 20+ year industry veteran previously served as studio director, contributing to the studios operational and creative success.Ramrezs tenure at El Ranchito began in 2015, when he established and led the effects department. He has subsequently taken on leadership roles including head of VFX, managing operations, research and development, and pipeline development.With the VFX industry entering a new era of technological advancement, the studio looks to Ramrez to lead El Ranchito into the future."Its an honor to take on this new challenge," said Ramrez. "Im excited to lead El Ranchito in this new phase, with the goal of strengthening our global presence and continuing to create an environment where creative talent can thrive.""It has been an honor over the last 20 years to help lead the El Ranchito team to where it is today, said Bergs. I feel very comfortable leaving the company in Manuel's capable hands, supported by an outstanding team that shares the same vision."Pitch Black CEO Sbastien Bergeron added, Flix has done an exceptional job in positioning El Ranchito as a prominent visual effects studio, not only in Spain but globally, delivering outstanding work for its clients. Manuel is the perfect choice to take the reins and guide El Ranchito into its next chapter."Source: Pitch Black Debbie Diamond Sarto is news editor at Animation World Network.