Editor’s Note: Welcome to “Reel Women,” our annual tribute to dynamic women in creative industries. For the month of March, let us introduce you to some very special women like EP/Head of Business Development at SixTwentySix Productions, Carleigh Finch.
Carleigh is at the forefront of the leading, award-winning creative studio based in Los Angeles. With a rich background in production and media, Carleigh’s professional journey commenced in New York, where she honed her skills at renowned companies like Thomson Reuters before making the transition to the West Coast.
Attracted by SixTwentySix’s innovative approach, she joined as their inaugural representative, spearheading the company’s sales strategy with a focus on crafting tailored creative content for Millennial and Gen-Z audiences. Carleigh’s proactive methods and unwavering commitment to delivering value have fostered robust client relationships, evidenced by collaborations with top-tier agencies such as Mother LA, M Booth, Anomaly, TBWA/Chiat/Day, GALE, OKRP, Maximum Effort, and VaynerMedia, alongside premier brands like Squarespace and Amazon Ring.
Beyond her professional endeavors, she draws inspiration from sports and cultural exploration, which fuels her creative and entrepreneurial spirit. Carleigh proudly calls Venice Beach, California her home, where she shares her life with her beloved French Bulldog, Maverick.
What’s your origin story and how did you get into the creative industry?
I grew up in NY and always had a strong interest in production. I went to film school in NYC and started working at the global news agency, Thomson Reuters. I ended up producing content for their client services division, working with clients like JPMorgan. I didn’t like the content but enjoyed producing and the client-facing aspect of it.
I moved to LA looking to get into more creative production. After freelancing around a bit, I ended up as a commercial production company rep, with a roster of companies. I became SixTwentySix’s first rep; I immediately resonated with Austin Barbera and Jake Krask as EPs and their company mission. I decided to come on board internally because SixTwentySix was doing something really special no one else in the industry was doing and I wanted to be a part of that journey. We have grown tremendously since then, and remain on that trajectory!
Who were your mentors?
My uncle has been a mentor of mine my entire life, he did a long stint at SNL when I was growing up. He influenced my love for film production, he’s taught me the importance of fostering relationships/how you treat people, and worth ethic. I credit those two things (and him of course) for where I’m today.
While there will be others, what do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
Definitely the year of 2023, all of the work and relationships established came to fruition in the best way. We also just signed some amazing new talent (Plummer/Strauss) at the end of the year, so I’m excited for what 2024 will bring.
What drives you to create?
The creative industry is a moving target. You can’t afford to be stagnant; you have to ride the waves of change. It’s a hustle to stay on top of the latest trends and remain plugged in 24/7. I’m always consuming content – industry blogs, podcasts, social media, you name it.
I’m not only focused on what’s happening now, but what’s coming next. You can’t just react, you have to be proactive, you’ve got to predict – pattern recognition. I spend time analyzing data, market shifts, and consumer behavior. This is a huge part of SixTwentySix culture. We are future obsessed.
What is a product or service you dream of doing a campaign for?
I always look for products or services that solve a real problem or provide genuine value to people’s lives. The key is authenticity and resonance with our audience. One dream campaign for me would be promoting a revolutionary tech product that genuinely improves the way people function. Whether it’s a cutting-edge fitness device, or an innovative mental health app, I’m all about spreading the word on things that make a positive impact.
Who are you dying to work with in the film/TV arena?
I would love to work with Sam Levinson, I’m a huge Euphoria fan.
Award you crave, but haven’t won
I’m not really fixated on specific awards. For me, it’s more about the journey and the process of constantly improving and pushing myself. Although recognition is always great, I think real fulfillment comes from the work itself and the impact it has on the people it’s intended for.
Female-directed franchise films such as ‘Star Wars’ or MCU constantly get called “woke” by Internet trolls. Why?
I’m a fan of projects that prioritize diversity, strong characters, or address social issues. Some perceive this progress as a challenge to traditional norms. However, these films aim to represent our diverse world and offer empowering stories for all, and that’s what matters most.
Coffee, Lunch or Happy Hour
A perfect day –
Coffee – Sandra Bullock
Lunch – Serena Williams
Happy Hour – Kate McKinnon
It’s an election year, what is keeping you up at night?
Achieving equitable representation and addressing pressing social issues.
Favorite movie and TV show of 2023.
Succession will always be my favorite series but I loved HBO’s The Gilded Age and Apple TV’s Severance!
Band or singer you would ditch your career and go perform with
The Spice Girls, obviously!
What’s your theme song for 2024?
GOOD DAYS by SZA!
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