Panavision has named Zoë Iltsopoulos Borys to lead the company’s Chicago office as Vice President and General Manager. Borys will ensure Panavision’s customers continue to receive the highest level of service and support throughout the commercial, television, and feature sectors, and will be supported in the office’s day-to-day business by Chicago operations manager Stan Glapa.
Borys’ appointment follows the retirement of Sharon Walker, who was with Panavision for 20 years and served as general manager of Panavision Chicago since the 13,000-square-foot facility opened in 2016.
“The Panavision family is indebted to Sharon for her steadfast commitment and leadership, and we’re excited for Zoë to build on that legacy and continue to expand Panavision Chicago’s reach throughout the Midwest,” said Panavision chief operating officer, Michael George. “Zoë’s well known throughout the industry, and especially in Chicago, for her tireless support of the creative community and passion for helping filmmakers realize their visions. Whether they’re shooting commercials, episodic content, or feature films, productions in Chicago and beyond can be confident that Zoë and the entire Panavision Chicago team are there for them with superior service and the very best cameras and optics in the industry.”
After serving in a marketing role with Panavision from 1998-2006, Borys rejoined Panavision in 2018 as vice president and general manager of Panavision Atlanta. She brings more than 25 years of industry experience — much of which has been spent serving Chicago’s filmmaking community — to her new position. Borys is also an associate member of the American Society of Cinematographers.
“I’m thrilled to be able to take on this larger role for the region,” said Borys. “Chicago’s dynamic filmmaking community is home to incredible creative talent that attracts projects from all around the US Panavision is proud to offer our world-class service and support for all manner of productions shooting in the greater Chicago area and throughout the Midwest region.”
Offering full camera and lens service, Panavision Chicago is located at 1554 W. Carroll Avenue, within close vicinity of Cinespace Chicago Film Studios, Chicago Studio City, and the Essanay stages. The facility’s optics offerings are supported by a state-of-the-art lens-projection room and the expertise of optical technician Al Collins. Other feature highlights include a prep floor with five prep bays, a 900-square foot private prep room, easy dock access, and a Panastore. A full team of experienced technicians and support personnel provide customers with the superlative service Panavision is known for worldwide.
Beyond its role as a rental provider, Panavision Chicago supports the local filmmaking community through outreach, educational programs, and partnerships with such organizations and events as the Association of Independent Commercial Producers (AICP) Midwest, the Illinois Production Alliance, Filmscape Chicago, and the Chicago International Film Festival.
