Christy Craig Thames Joins Retrospec Films

By NANCY HERMANN
Variety Editor

Retrospec Films, Oklahoma’s largest production studio and Tulsa-based film company, has named Christy Craig Thames as director of client relations. Operating from an expansive 12,000-square-foot facility in Tulsa, Retrospec has grown into a nationally known multi-faceted film company. The addition of Thames to the current staff is another step in expanding Retrospec’s client-centered expertise and services.
“Relationships are everything in this business,” emphasizes Retrospec Owner and Director Jason Burks.“ As we grow, we need someone who knows business and scalability ― someone who is genuine and engaging. Added to that, Christy’s strong appreciation and understanding of the arts and the Tulsa community is a big win.”
With advanced degrees in biochemistry and chemistry from the University of Tulsa, Thames has served in leadership roles that include founding her own biotech company in 2009, leading strategy and business development initiatives for a large international oil and gas firm as well as overseeing brand and public relations for locally owned businesses. Her experience includes the creation and spearheading of marketing, customer and public relations plans and E-Commerce.
“Creating business and operation strategies that maximize shareholder value and interests are key ways I have helped companies,” says Thames. “Developing a company’s cultural enrichment through increased civic and community engagement is another important component in the overall success of a company,” she adds.
Thames says, “Retrospec Films is transforming the way businesses, products, and organizations share their stories. For me everything begins with establishing a strong understanding of a client’s business. That pulse leads to an organic creative strategy where my team and I can share a company’s story in a profoundly impactful way for both business and the company culture.”
Thames and her husband, Dustin, are longtime advocates and patrons of the arts. She serves several local non-profits, including Tulsa Symphony’s board of directors, the Tulsa Foundation of Architecture’s board of trustees, and the advisory board for Harmony Project Tulsa.
Founded by Burks in 2001 and specializing in unique adventure cinematography services, Retrospec has filmed in seven countries and in all 50 states. The company excels in both photography and video. “We tell stories the way they should be told and let our work speak for our passion,” says Burks. His team competes with other national film companies in providing pre-production planning, location scouting, talent acquisition, and storyboard and scripting, along with complete film production, post-production and editing. Retrospec also employs a team dedicated to social media content creation and management.
The company’s client portfolio is as diverse as its team of longtime employees. Projects range from work for the State of Oklahoma Tourism, Hilti International, the American Red Cross and PBR Bull Riding to music videos for high-profile individuals.
“For us to have someone on our team who our clients can rely on and trust to help make decisions keeps us forward-moving in positioning our clients as industry leaders. And Christy can assist in thinking outside the box on their behalf,” says Burks. “Plus, everyone loves being around her. She will be our clients’ and our best cheerleader.”