Weta FX Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Weta FX has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, finance, and people operations.

Driven by artistic vision, Weta FX is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of visual effects and animation, fostering a global community of talent to create unparalleled cinematic experiences.

Leadership Roles at Weta FX

  • Chief Executive Officer - Michael McNeil
  • Chief Financial Officer - Patrick Hussey
  • Chief Technology Officer - Kimball Thurston
  • Chief People Officer - Linda Shearer
  • Michael McNeil - Chief Executive Officer

    Michael McNeil, the Chief Executive Officer at Weta FX, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution. McNeil guides Weta FX's mission to attract top-tier talent and partners, ensuring the continuous evolution of its proprietary pipeline. This leadership involves fostering an environment where artists and engineers can achieve their most ambitious creative goals. McNeil's focus centers on maintaining Weta FX's position as a global leader in visual effects and animation, driving the company's pursuit of artistic and technological excellence. The Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the company's commitment to groundbreaking visual storytelling, building upon a legacy of award-winning character and world creation. McNeil's strategic direction supports the studio's expansion and its ability to deliver unparalleled visual fidelity for clients worldwide.

    Patrick Hussey - Chief Financial Officer

    Patrick Hussey, the Chief Financial Officer at Weta FX, manages the company's financial strategy and fiscal operations. Hussey oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation, ensuring the studio's economic stability and growth. This leadership role is critical in supporting Weta FX's extensive creative projects and its global operational footprint. Patrick Hussey's expertise ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to maintain the studio's competitive advantage and facilitate its continuous innovation in visual effects. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to managing client contracts and financial partnerships, underpinning the studio's reputation for reliability and excellence. Hussey's financial acumen is integral to sustaining Weta FX's position as the world's largest single-site VFX studio.

    Kimball Thurston - Chief Technology Officer

    Kimball Thurston, the Chief Technology Officer at Weta FX, architects the technological infrastructure that powers the studio's groundbreaking visual effects and animation. Thurston oversees the development and refinement of Weta FX's proprietary pipeline, equipping artists with state-of-the-art tools essential for creating complex digital characters and immersive worlds. This role involves driving innovation in rendering, simulation, and asset management technologies, ensuring Weta FX remains at the forefront of digital artistry. Kimball Thurston's leadership ensures the pipeline's scalability and efficiency, supporting the creation of visually stunning content that defines industry standards. The Chief Technology Officer's efforts directly contribute to the studio's ability to realize ambitious artistic visions, maintaining Weta FX's competitive edge in the global entertainment landscape.

    Linda Shearer - Chief People Officer

    Linda Shearer, the Chief People Officer at Weta FX, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the globally diverse workforce. Shearer cultivates a vibrant and inclusive culture that attracts and retains artists, engineers, and executives from over 40 countries. This role is fundamental to maintaining Weta FX's status as a premier destination for creative professionals seeking to push the boundaries of visual effects. Linda Shearer's focus includes developing robust employee programs, fostering professional growth, and ensuring a supportive environment where artistic ambition can thrive. The Chief People Officer's dedication to talent development and employee well-being directly supports the studio's capacity for producing award-winning visual effects and animated content, reinforcing Weta FX's commitment to its people as its greatest asset.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Broadcasting

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Weta FX Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Weta FX?
    Weta FX is led by Michael McNeil (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Patrick Hussey (Chief Financial Officer) and Kimball Thurston (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Weta FX’s executive team?
    The executive team of Weta FX includes leaders such as Michael McNeil (Chief Executive Officer), Patrick Hussey (Chief Financial Officer), Kimball Thurston (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Weta FX have?
    Weta FX has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Weta FX’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Weta FX includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief People Officer.