Niki Williams
Senior Creative Executive | Animation, Live-Action & IRL Activation Specialist | Strategic Leader
A creative executive with 15+ years of experience leading the production of impactful content and engaging audience experiences across film, television, and digital platforms. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complex budgets, and deliver projects on time and within budget. Expertise in digital campaigns, animation, live events, and integrated productions, with a strong understanding of video production workflows and industry trends.
Experience Summary:
Strategic project management and creative direction
Cross-functional team leadership and collaboration
Problem-solving and process optimization
Adobe Creative Suite proficiency (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects)
Aligning projects with strategicl goals and objectives
Experience:
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Directed creative video production for globally recognized animated series, including PAW Patrol, Bossy Bear, Santiago of the Seas, and Face's Music Party, significantly exceeding industry demand on digital platforms.
Oversaw the development and production of animated series, contributing to millions of YouTube impressions and expanding brand presence across the Paramount ecosystem.
Managed production budgets of $10M-$20M per series, ensuring on-time delivery through optimized pre-production workflows.
Developed and implemented strategies to bridge the gap between linear and digital platforms, focusing on engaging digital-native audiences.
Collaborated with licensing and merchandising teams to extend brand reach and build community around animated IP.
Possess comprehensive knowledge of SAG-AFTRA guidelines for shooting and recording of talent, including usage and payment considerations.
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Produce, direct, and edit digital content for Nickelodeon Family platforms, increasing viewer engagement and brand loyalty
Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for multiple simultaneous productions, consistently meeting deadlines and budget targets
Lead cross-departmental coordination, aligning project goals across show units and departments to optimize workflow efficiency
Pioneer innovative digital content strategies, adapting production methods to overcome COVID-19 challenges while maintaining high-quality output
Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation, (ie production schedules, budgets, and creative briefs)
Direct high-profile project "Black Sunshine" featuring Alicia Keys, premiered in Times Square, demonstrating celebrity collaboration expertise
Creat and maintain comprehensive project documentation including production schedules, budgets, and creative briefs, enhancing project transparency and accountability
Utilize Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop) for content creation and post-production
Manage teams of 5-10 creatives, fostering a collaborative environment and mentoring junior staff
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Lead end-to-end production processes for diverse projects, including conceptualization, budgeting, scheduling, and marketing strategy development
Spearhead creative solutions to production challenges, consistently delivering high-quality outcomes while fostering valuable industry relationships
Direct cross-functional teams in the creation and execution of digital content, websites, and landing pages, showcasing versatility across digital and physical mediums
Oversee financial operations, including accounts payable/receivable and retail components for major events, ensuring fiscal responsibility and profitability
Negotiate and approve contracts with clients, vendors, and crew, leveraging strong communication skills to secure favorable terms
Manage social media strategies, guiding platform-specific content creation to maximize event visibility and engagement
Cultivate a culture of innovation and excellence, mentoring team members and driving continuous improvement in production processes
Successfully pitch and defend multi-million dollar project budgets to stakeholders, demonstrating financial acumen and persuasive leadership
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Spearhead development of studio pitches, collaborating closely with writers to refine concepts and narratives
Craft visually compelling pitch decks, effectively communicating project vision to agents, writers, and studio executives
Lead strategic talent acquisition, identifying and tracking emerging writers, directors, and above-the-line crew
Manage high-profile talent relationships, including Shane Acker and will.i.am, ensuring productive creative partnerships
Implement a robust project tracking system, maintaining comprehensive logs of scripts, specs, and pitches
Provide critical script coverage and development notes, driving continuous improvement of project quality
Evaluate incoming pitches and formulate strategic recommendations for development greenlighting
Initiate and nurture relationships with agents and writers, sourcing high-potential undeveloped projects
Orchestrate creative team collaborations, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence in storytelling
Leverage industry insights to identify market trends and audience preferences, informing project selection and development
University of Southern California - Film & Television Production Alum
Skills Summary:
Adobe Creative Suite
Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, & Acrobat
Budgeting & Scheduling
Scene and Set Direction
Mac & PC Environments
Google Docs
Crew Management
Animation Production Pipeline
Problem-solving
Strong creative & strategic thinking
Creative writing
I specialize in transforming bold concepts into engaging, memorable, and impactful experiences that resonate.
I am passionate about bringing stories to life. For me, collaboration, meticulous planning, and a strong focus on the audience are key. With extensive experience in guiding production, creative direction, and cross-departmental teamwork on high-profile projects, I am eager to work with an organization that values creativity and is dedicated to telling dynamic, impactful stories.
“BLACK SUNSHINE” - Directed by me!