Flavor’s First‑Ever Managing Director Neal Cohen Retires; Longstanding Executive Producer Kate Smith Rises to Lead the Studio

Creative production studio Flavor, part of the global Cutters Studios network, today announced a major leadership transition: Managing Director Neal Cohen, a defining force in Chicago’s commercial production community for nearly four decades, is retiring. Executive Producer Kate Smith, a longtime Flavor and Cutters Studios leader, will step into the top role and guide the studio forward.

Cohen’s retirement marks the close of a remarkable career. Over 39 years, he has been one of Chicago’s most trusted hands‑on producers. His experience spans design, 2D and 3D animation, VFX, color, and finishing. During his four years as Flavor’s first-ever Managing Director, he helped guide the studio through rapid growth and major technological shifts. He also strengthened the company’s culture, which remains rooted in collaboration, loyalty, and long‑term creative relationships.

“I’m most proud of the team I’ve built,” he began. “I’ve pretty much hired everyone at Flavor, and many have been here 8, 10, even 15 years. They must like working here and the work we do. That means everything to me.”

Cohen continued, “Kate has helped me run Flavor for the last four years. Her experience as an EP and Senior Producer is huge. She knows our clients and understands the technical side. I couldn’t be more confident she’s the right choice to step in and step up.”

Smith brings more than 20 years of post‑production experience and a deep connection to the Cutters Studios family. Her career includes award‑winning commercial campaigns and Super Bowl work, including WeatherTech’s ‘Whatever Comes Your Way’ and Jeep’s ‘Owner’s Manual.’ She also served on the board of Half Rez, the premier Chicago event for motion designers and animators. Since returning to Flavor in 2022, she has been central to the studio’s growth, client relationships, and national sales outreach.

“I’ve learned so much from Neal over the past seven years,” Smith explained. “One of the best lessons is to stick to the facts. And I love his line, ‘hoping is not good producing.’ While I still use a little hope, it’s a great reminder.

“I’m most looking forward to sharing Flavor’s amazing work with a broader audience and finding new and unique opportunities for my team,” Smith added.

Cutters Studios President and Managing Director Craig Duncan praised both leaders and the continuity they represent. “Kate has been an invaluable part of our leadership, sales, and marketing efforts for years,” he said. “I’ve watched her advocate for Flavor and Cutters Studios with total confidence. She connects with people instantly and she’s absolutely ready for this. Neal trained her well, and this transition will be seamless.”

Duncan also addressed Cohen’s enormous legacy: “Neal built a team that feels like family, and that spirit is exactly what Kate will carry forward.”

As Flavor continues to support agencies and brands worldwide, the studio remains committed to expanding its global network of freelance collaborators. Designers, 2D and 3D animators, character animators, VFX artists, compositors, and Flame finishers are invited to submit reels and portfolios at http://cuttersstudios.com/freelancer.

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