Open Swim, a full-service production company founded by director/editor Bradley Ross, has added Lian DesMarais as head of production and Jefferson Wenzel as assistant editor to the company’s team. 

“I love having someone on the team who is dedicated to the production process, and to keeping the quality and experience consistent for everyone,” said Open Swim’s EP Amyliz Pera. “Lian has the right variety of experience for Open Swim to be able to guide our teams--including long-form and documentary experience. Most importantly, she’s a decent person. She’s caring, really fun to have around, and happens to have an incredible sense of style.”

DesMarais joins Open Swim as no stranger to Ross as the two worked closely in the production industry years ago. With an in-depth knowledge of traditional production, digital media, branded content and live shows, DesMarais founded production service company Ren Kelley Productions in 2011, delivering exceptional work as an EP and line producer for notable clients including Calvin Klein, Nickelodeon, Adidas and Samsung.

“I’m so happy to be joining Open Swim; It’s rare to have the opportunity to be part of shaping something new and to work with a like-minded team,” offers DesMarais. “We all bring a unique perspective, but share a strong creative drive balanced with a healthy work culture. I take a lot of pride in my work and enjoy facilitating as ideas become fully formed. It’s an honor to bring your values and passions to work every day, and I look forward to what I’ll be able to build with Bradley and Amyliz.” 

DesMarais’ responsibilities will include overseeing Open Swim’s production and postproduction teams, the latter growing with the addition of Wenzel. Prior to joining Open Swim, Wenzel has worked as 3D modeler and animator on projects for fashion brand Collina Strada and retailer Showfields, and as a VFX compositor and assistant editor on the short film “Slow Pulse,” which debuted at the Tribecca Film Festival in 2021.

“Jefferson has the experience we need to assist in our editorial and postproduction process, but in filling this position, we’re fortunate that he comes with visual effects skills to be able to offer more capabilities in-house for our clients,” noted Pera.

Wenzel is another example of Open Swim  growing the team through pre-existing relationships. “Director/owner Bradley Ross’s mom plays in a band with Jefferson’s mom, so when the two started talking about their sons, the job search became much easier; it wasn’t just parental bragging--he really has talent,” added Pera.