LESTER RIVE PADILLA
Filmmker - Professor
Cabo Rojo
Summary
Knowledgeable professional with strong background in teaching fine arts. Proven track record of successfully engaging students in learning. Employs deep understanding of importance of creativity in classroom to meet student needs. Imaginative film professor creates dynamic and exhilarating learning experiences for students. Well-versed in overseeing all facets of film production, from conceptual development through final delivery. Proficient in every behind-the-scenes position and all related equipment. Versed in working with clients and promoting products.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Creative Director
La Greca Media Group
9 2021 - Current
- Proven experience in the field of social media management and digital marketing with more than 15 clients from different fields
- Preproduction, production of many commercials, music videos, and promotional videos for different industries
- Create videos for social media platforms for different clients including animation components
- In-depth knowledge of social media platforms, advertising techniques, and digital marketing trends
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Ability to work collaboratively and adapt to a fast-paced, ever-changing industry
- Entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for staying at the forefront of digital marketing.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and seamless execution
- Oversaw implementation of editing, color correction and other post-production processes
Festival Director
Puerto Rico Film Festival
11.2009 - Current
- Director of the most important film festival in Puerto Rico with more than +1,200 film submissions of 65 countries
- Successfully led the premier film festival and event in Puerto Rico, increasing film submissions to over 1,200 from 65 countries, thereby enhancing the festival's international prestige and local impact
- Spearheaded the organization and execution of the festival, achieving a 30% growth in audience attendance through strategic marketing and community engagement
- Forged and strengthened collaborations with key industry partners, sponsors, and local businesses, securing vital funding and support for festival operations
- Initiated and developed comprehensive educational programs aimed at students and emerging filmmakers, including workshops, seminars, and masterclasses led by industry experts
- Implemented a digital platform for virtual screenings and educational content, making the festival more accessible and increasing participation by 40%
- Curated a diverse lineup of films and programming that promoted cultural exchange and understanding, including special sections dedicated to student and local filmmakers
- Expanded the festival's scope to include a competition segment for student films, providing a platform for young talent to showcase their work and gain recognition
- Coordinated with educational institutions to integrate festival participation into curriculum, offering students hands-on experience and opportunities for academic credit
- Launched mentorship programs connecting aspiring filmmakers with seasoned industry professionals, fostering knowledge exchange and career development
- Led a team in securing grants and sponsorships specifically for educational initiatives, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the festival's educational programs.
Distributor and Film Acquisitions & Production Assistant
Spanglish Movies
06.2020 - 05.2023
- Production Assistant for films: Teacher Mechy (2023), Perfecto Anfitrión (2021)
- Spearheaded the acquisition process for over 150+ films, negotiating contracts and securing distribution rights, significantly expanding the company's portfolio with diverse and engaging content
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with filmmakers, producers, and other content creators, ensuring a continuous pipeline of potential acquisitions
- Conducted thorough market research to identify trends, audience preferences, and emerging opportunities in the film industry, tailoring acquisition strategies to meet market demand
- Work in the development and film acquisitions for the creation of the Flou.tv channel for Spanglish network
- Organized and participated in major film festivals and industry events, representing Spanglish Movies and enhancing its reputation as a leading distributor in the industry
- Leveraged digital platforms and social media for the promotion of acquired films, doubling viewer engagement and online ticket sales within the first year
- Implemented a comprehensive screening process to evaluate film quality, relevance, and potential commercial success, increasing the company’s success rate in film acquisitions by 40%
- Negotiated favorable deals for both on-demand and physical distribution channels, ensuring a broad and versatile distribution network for the company’s film catalog.
After Effects and Photoshop Professor
ICPR
08.2020 - 07.2022
- Develop and design comprehensive course curriculum for Adobe After Effects and Photoshop classes
- Create engaging lesson plans, assignments, and projects that provide students with hands-on experience in using these software tools
- Deliver lectures, tutorials, and practical demonstrations to help students understand complex concepts and master the software
- Provide constructive feedback on students' work, assisting them in improving their skills and creative output
- Assess students' knowledge and progress through examinations, quizzes, and practical assignments
- Mentor students in building strong portfolios and guide them in understanding career opportunities in the field
- Stay current with the latest software updates, design trends, and industry developments to ensure students receive up-to-date instruction
- Collaborate with colleagues and attend department meetings to contribute to the institution's academic community
- Foster an inclusive and stimulating learning environment that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and active student participation.
Film Production Teacher
Escuela Libre de Música de Mayagüez
08.2016 - 05.2019
- Developed and delivered a filmmaking curriculum covering scriptwriting, production, and post-production processes, emphasizing hands-on learning for more than150 students.
- Led workshops for students and teachers in Final Cut X, After Effects, Photoshop, Final Draft, and Motion, enhancing both practical skills and creative expression
- Cultivated a collaborative classroom environment, encouraging creativity and teamwork in film projects such as short films and documentaries
- Liaised with local film festivals for student participation, offering a real-world platform for showcasing their work
- Introduced a mentorship program, pairing students with industry professionals to foster practical learning and networking
- Evaluated student progress through continuous feedback, adjusting teaching strategies to meet diverse learning needs
- Organized and participated in school film club activities, enriching the school's cultural environment and students' understanding of film.
Master Control Operator and Coordinator
W.E.L.L.U. Channel 32.1
05.2012 - 05.2014
- Integration & execution of live local, network & recorded programming with paid and unpaid commercial breaks
- Quality control, record and playback of programming fed via satellite, fiber and IP based transmission
- Ingest of short and long form content via file-based delivery
- Communication/coordination of commercial break schedule and timing with producers of live programming
- Verify accuracy/discrepancies of programming & timing on network logs and discrepancy reports for all shifts worked
- Coordination & execution of feeds to and from other networks
- Constant quality control and monitoring of all parameters of HD/SD air and return feeds
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Military Police
United States Navy
05.1997 - 05.2004
- Supervise staff of 50 Law Enforcement Specialist
- Perform specialized internal security operations at installations and facilities
- Specialized training in developing surveillance itineraries for staff and implementing monitoring security systems
- Provide security and handle Top Secret material in restricted areas and classified material
- Control entry and exit of military and civilian personnel vehicles and other equipment at access points to restricted areas
- Patrol property concentration areas on foot and using vehicles
- Enforce general and special orders and regulations applicable to the area operations
- Personnel convoy escort and defense against intrusion by hostile element riot or other unusual circumstances
- Supervised and administered the development and operation of an ongoing criminal investigation program for a large installation.
Education
Master's degree in Digital Marketing -
Universidad Del Este, PR
Filmmaking certificate - undefined
Fundación de Cine in Caguas
Final Cut Pro Training Program - undefined
IT & Media Company (ITMC)
Certificate - undefined
Dov S-S Simens’ & Hollywood Film Institute’s Web Film School
Certificate, Desarrollo de Guión - undefined
Escuela de Cine de P.R.
Certified course on Web Designs - undefined
University of PR, Mayagüez Campus
Skills
Cinematography
undefinedJob Related Honors Awards
- "¿Quién dice yo? Winner best documentary Rincon Film Festival
- Recognition for their work in the film industry in Puerto Rico - Senate of Puerto Rico (2023)
- Sailor of the Quarter; 1998
- Good Conduct Medal; 2000, 2004
- Letter of Commendation; 2001, 2002
Highlights Qualifications
- Bilingual-fluent in both English and Spanish
- Master Degree in Digital Marketing
- More than 13 years’ experience working as a videographer and editor for commercials, films and professional videos
- More than 15 years’ experience in Graphic design
- Training in AI technology
- US NAVY Veteran
Timeline
After Effects and Photoshop Professor
ICPR
08.2020 - 07.2022
Distributor and Film Acquisitions & Production Assistant
Spanglish Movies
06.2020 - 05.2023
Film Production Teacher
Escuela Libre de Música de Mayagüez
08.2016 - 05.2019
Master Control Operator and Coordinator
W.E.L.L.U. Channel 32.1
05.2012 - 05.2014
Festival Director
Puerto Rico Film Festival
11.2009 - Current
Military Police
United States Navy
05.1997 - 05.2004
Creative Director
La Greca Media Group
9 2021 - Current
Master's degree in Digital Marketing -
Universidad Del Este, PR
Filmmaking certificate - undefined
Fundación de Cine in Caguas
Final Cut Pro Training Program - undefined
IT & Media Company (ITMC)
Certificate - undefined
Dov S-S Simens’ & Hollywood Film Institute’s Web Film School
Certificate, Desarrollo de Guión - undefined
Escuela de Cine de P.R.
Certified course on Web Designs - undefined
University of PR, Mayagüez Campus
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