+64 21 837 015
MELANIE BRIDGE
GLOBAL CEO & FOUNDING PARTNER
In the early days of The Sweetshop, Melanie's remarkable eye for filmic detail and visionary mindset quickly propelled her to great success in the world of directing. Her unique perspective as a film director now plays a crucial role in her position as Co-CEO, where she shares the leadership responsibilities with her partner Sharlene. The fact that The Sweetshop stands out as one of the few fully female and director-led film production companies in the world fills Mel with immense pride.
Mel’s background as a film director gives her a distinct advantage in her role as CEO. She ensures that every decision made within the company is infused with the perspective of a director, allowing for an artistically-driven approach that sets The Sweetshop apart. Her understanding of the creative process and the intricacies of filmmaking guide her decision-making, ensuring that the company maintains its unique identity and continues to push creative boundaries.
One of Mel’s greatest strengths lies in her commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and empowering individuals within The Sweetshop. She recognizes the importance of nurturing and supporting the team, allowing each individual to flourish and reach their full potential. Mel's leadership extends beyond mere management; she serves as a mentor, guide, and source of inspiration for the entire team. Her ability to see the best in people and help them shine has been instrumental in the company's success.
+64 21 662 556
SHARLENE GEORGE
GLOBAL CEO & FOUNDING PARTNER
Ngāti Māoate, Ngāti Tamarua o Takitumu, Ngāti Paerangi o Ngamaru.
Sharlene is a Cook Island Māori who was born and raised in Ponsonby, Auckland. Her production career began in 1989 in London where she spent nine years working in advertising, FMCG companies, The Walt Disney Co., Buena Vista Home Entertainment and commercial film production companies.
In 2001, Sharlene and her business partners Melanie Bridge and Paul Prince founded the global production company, Sweetshop, from their Auckland office. As of 2023, the company represents a roster of over 30 diverse directors globally, with fully serviced production companies in seven cities around the world: Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne, Los Angeles, Bangkok, Shanghai, and London.
In October 2019, Sharlene and her new business partner, Gal Greenspan, started the film and television production company, Sweetshop & Green, which saw Sweetshop combine forces with Green Productions to create a company specialising in producing local stories for an international audience.
SCOTT PATERSON
FINANCIAL CONTROLLER
As Sweetshop's Financial Strategist, Scott specialises in fostering dynamic partnerships with brands.
Drawing from his extensive background at PwC, where he worked with a diverse array of businesses across numerous industries, Scott serves as the key financial and commercial link between Sweetshop and its valued partners.
Whether he's delving into financial analytics or exploring new approaches, Scott is committed to ensuring the success of every brand partnership.
+61 433 461 800
+64 21 624 645
KARLIE FISHER
GLOBAL HEAD OF BRAND
For Karlie the perfect creative tells a great story and provides a solution to a problem. She is first and foremost, a curious creative thinker. Karlie's innate curiosity is a driving force, always urging her to dig a little deeper, to stay a few steps ahead in an industry that never stops evolving.
She proudly wears the title of an 'ideas person,' and her brain is a treasure trove of creativity. With years of experience, she's worn many hats, from Agency Creative Director to Brand Strategist, Designer, Art Director, and Mentor – a commercially savvy creative leader who can help clients, creative teams, and planners dive into big picture thinking, finding new opportunities within the ever changing media/digital landscape.
Karlie is a whirlwind of creativity, artistry, and design. She never shies away from a good old-fashioned whiteboard brainstorming session, and her obsession with kerning, leading, and typefaces might leave some scratching their heads. But it's all in the name of creative excellence.