CHICAGO – Flavor (https://flavor.tv), the creative production house that's a part of the global Cutters Studios network, just announced a major leadership transition. Managing director Neal Cohen, a veteran of Chicago's commercial production community for nearly four decades, is retiring. Executive producer Kate Smith, a longtime Flavor and Cutters Studios leader, will step into the top role and guide the studio forward.
Cohen's career spans 39 years, with experience in design, 2D & 3D animation, VFX, color and finishing. During his time as Flavor’s first-ever managing director, he helped guide the studio through rapid growth and major technological shifts. He also strengthened the company’s culture, which remains rooted in collaboration, loyalty and long‑term creative relationships.
“I’m most proud of the team I’ve built," he shares. "I’ve pretty much hired everyone at Flavor, and many have been here eight, 10, even 15 years. They must like working here and the work we do. That means everything to me.”
Smith helped him run Flavor for the last four years and brings experience as an EP and senior producer.
"She knows our clients and understands the technical side," says Cohen. "I couldn’t be more confident she’s the right choice to step in and step up.”
Smith has more than 20 years of post production experience and a deep connection to the Cutters Studios family. Her career includes award‑winning commercial campaigns and Super Bowl work, including WeatherTech’s Whatever Comes Your Way and Jeep’s Owner’s Manual. She also served on the board of Half Rez, the Chicago event for motion designers and animators. Since returning to Flavor in 2022, she has been central to the studio’s growth, client relationships and national sales outreach.
“I’ve learned so much from Neal," Smith reveals. “One of the best lessons is to stick to the facts. And I love his line, ‘Hoping is not good producing.’ While I still use a little hope, it’s a great reminder. I’m most looking forward to sharing Flavor’s amazing work with a broader audience and finding new and unique opportunities for my team."
“Neal built a team that feels like family, and that spirit is exactly what Kate will carry forward,” adds Cutters Studios president and managing director Craig Duncan.