Engine, the independent marketing, communications and consultancy company, has hired Melody Sylvester as its first head of film. In the newly created role Sylvester will be tasked with leading all AV production, including running the company’s content studio.

Sylvester joins from RSA Films, the award-winning film, TV, commercial, music video production company founded by directors Ridley and Tony Scott. She joined in 2010 as executive producer to launch and run the design & animation division and has continued to remain forward thinking and responsive to changes in the industry, spearheading the launch of photography division RSA Photographic.

Her 25-year career in the creative industry has spanned all key areas of broadcast, including film, commercial, video, photography and animation. She has worked with many of the world’s best directors and photographers, top commercial and music video producers, and come into contact with some of the world’s most famous brands – including Smirnoff, BMW, Nike, Reebok, Coca Cola, Stella McCartney and most recently Paul Smith.

Sylvester acts as a mentor and advocate for many inclusivity and diversity initiatives. She is associated with Pitch Superwomen, 100 Black Creatives, the Dots, Create Works and It’s Nice That and has held judging and council posts with the British Arrows, D&AD and the APA Animation Council.

Sylvester joined Engine at the start of September.

She says, “This a fantastic opportunity to combine my professional skills, extensive experience and passion into one all-encompassing role. Engine’s collaborative model makes total sense to me. A unified and holistic approach is the best way to achieve the best creative results; it enriches the experience for everyone and shows in the work. I believe clients now expect it and audiences respond well to it too. Engine is actively investing in the future of the industry and that excites me."

Dave Roberts, chief content officer at Engine, adds, “Engine works with some of the world's most exciting and innovative content brands, so we have to ensure we find the most exciting and innovative talent. In Melody we know we've found a kindred spirit.”