Arts Academy has promoted longtime collaborator Charlee Mackey to its editorial roster, recognizing an editor whose work has helped shape campaigns for some of advertising’s biggest brands while building a reputation for emotionally driven storytelling.
Mackey joins the roster after nearly four years with the Portland, Los Angeles and New York-based post-production collective, where she has contributed to projects for Visa, Bank of America, Snapchat, Buick, Eli Lilly, Honda, Ford, McDonald’s, Michelob Ultra, Miller Lite, Pella and El Camino Health.
Originally from Portland, Oregon, Mackey studied film and post-production in both the United States and England before carving out a career spanning commercial, documentary and sports storytelling. Her portfolio includes Visa’s Olympic campaign “Prodigies” for Wieden+Kennedy, Bank of America’s Masters Tournament campaigns “Bubba” and “Out Here” for Leo, Snapchat’s Super Bowl LVIII spot “Love,” and Buick’s Women’s March Madness campaign “See Greatness.”
She has also collaborated with acclaimed directors including Lance Acord, John Hillcoat, David Gordon Green, Charlie Di Placido, The Taos Brothers and Arts Academy co-founder Tommy Harden.
A former rugby player, Mackey says she’s particularly drawn to stories centered on athletes, women and underrepresented voices, with an emphasis on finding the emotional heart of every project.
“I’m drawn to candid human interaction and genuine emotion,” Mackey said. “Whether I’m cutting a documentary, a sports campaign or a commercial, I’m always looking for the moments that make people feel something. If the work gives someone goosebumps, makes them tear up, or simply makes them smile, then I’ve done my job.”
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Arts Academy co-founder Tommy Harden said Mackey’s promotion reflects both her creative instincts and her growth within the company. “Charlee has so many talents, it’s hard to even know where to begin to describe them,” Harden said. “She edits with a razor-sharp intuition that’s deeply connected to a well of emotional intelligence. She’s brilliant and kind, and we all feel lucky to get to work with her.”
For Mackey, the promotion also marks her first official representation as an editor.
“I’ve worked alongside Peter and Tommy for nearly four years, and they’ve been thoughtful mentors every step of the way,” she said. “Their trust and support have helped shape the editor I am today. Joining the roster is an honor, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Reel 360 News wishes Charlee the best of luck in her new role.
