Jenny Schaye returns home to Optimus as editor

Optimus
Jenny Schaye

Optimus welcomes Jenny Schaye back to the leading production and post house as editor.

Jenny’s talent and commitment to producing the highest quality work – in a variety of mediums – will propel Optimus’s offline capabilities to even greater heights. Almost a decade ago, Schaye began her professional journey at Optimus as an intern, and her return marks a homecoming.

“We are so excited to have Jenny back to bolster our editorial team,” said Optimus Managing Editor|Partner Angelo Valencia. “Her talent has been undeniable from the start. And she has the tenacity and drive to ensure every project she touches shines. Jenny’s work on the IMDB.tv/Amazon Prime series Top Class was the moment that impressed upon me what an exceptional editor she is. I cannot wait to see her career continue to grow.” In addition to Top Class, she has edited work for clients including Afrin, American Express, Baygon, Chuck E Cheese, Extra, Illinois Office of Tourism, Whirlpool, Ziploc and more. 

Schaye earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a Minor in Media and Cinema Studies from the University of Illinois in 2012. She built her career at Optimus, working first as an intern from 2014 to 2016, after which she was hired as an assistant editor, working with Valencia and others from 2016 to 2021. Along the way, she has earned several AICP Camp Kuleshov Video Editing Competition Awards. Previous to her return, Schaye was an editor at Flare BBDO Chicago. 

Said Schaye, “From the first time I arrived at Optimus, it felt like home. When I started as an intern, I quickly discovered that editorial was my passion. No matter what shoot I was on, I wanted to see the footage. I jumped at the opportunity to assist Angelo, who became my mentor. He not only has amazing relationships with his clients, but was always willing to help in any capacity. I learned so much from him and others, and am so excited to be back. The breadth of work – from commercials and shorts to documentaries – and caliber of the team at Optimus are second to none.”

Mother of a 7-month-old, Schaye can’t wait until she can introduce her son to her work, showing him that he can make a career out of what he loves. She and her husband, a chef, live out their creative passions and approach life as a challenging adventure.  Schaye brings her unique artistry and charm to every area of life – whether eating her way through travels with her husband, avidly practicing yoga, or cooking up some seriously award winning chili- Schaye’s energy is contagious.

“We are so happy to start the year with Jenny back on the Optimus editorial team,” said Optimus EP|Managing Director Brian Hrastar. “Her return reflects the importance we place on nurturing and mentoring aspiring artists and supporting their professional path at the highest level.” 

View Schaye’s reel here.


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