Creative Director and Visual Effects Supervisor at Harbor, Ruel Smith is a seasoned force in the world of live-action and CG animation, with two decades of experience shaping some of the most visually compelling stories in entertainment and advertising.
A former animator turned creative leader, Ruel’s portfolio spans iconic titles such as Black Panther, Captain Marvel, The Jungle Book, Daredevil (Netflix), and Gears of War 4, where his technical expertise and cinematic sensibilities helped elevate blockbuster visuals to new heights. His transition into VFX supervision has seen him spearhead high-end campaigns for global brands including Nike, Disney, Apple, Oreo, Best Buy, Whoop, Huggies, and Toyota.
Renowned for his creative leadership, Ruel is deeply involved in every stage of production—from story development and early concepting to on-set supervision and final delivery—offering a hands-on approach that blends artistry with problem-solving precision. His ability to bridge the worlds of storytelling, technology, and client collaboration has made him a trusted partner for studios and agencies alike.
As Creative Director, VFX, at Harbor, Ruel continues to push the boundaries of animation and visual effects, leading teams with vision, technical mastery, and a commitment to innovation.