Toronto’s Guru Studio has hired Mark Pinder (pictured) as VP of technology to expand and strengthen its production infrastructure.

The new role oversees the production pipeline strategies at Guru Studio to advise on the technological requirements for the studio’s productivity and infrastructure, spanning production tech, IT, business systems and post-production. Pinder reports to Frank Falcone, president and executive creative director.

Pinder most recently served as head of technology at Halifax’s IoM Media, where he oversaw “large-scale pipeline enhancements,” as well as the company’s transition to remote work. He has also worked for Cinesite, Image Engine, Sony Pictures Imageworks and Pixar Canada.

The IT expert brings “decades of proven technology and production leadership,” said Falcone in a statement, as the company vies to expand its scope.

Guru is currently in production on service works such as the Sesame Street animated spinoff Mecha Builders for Cartoonito and HBO Max, and PAW Patrol.

The company has placed a focus on building up its 2D and 3D production teams within the last year, naming Babita Jassal as VP of people and culture to oversee its talent strategy.