Pixamondo has had to deal with plenty of tight turnarounds on features anyway. Hugo was a nightmare, from what I've heard, with shots that had to be turned around in a matter of weeks.
Pixomondo is identified on one GoT site as the primary VFX provider for that series, particularly the dragons.
I'm not familiar with Game of Thrones, having never watched the show, but a quick Google for VFX providers shows the most publicized FX house was Spin VFX, along with Image Engine, and about half a dozen others. ETA: Pixomondo's website has showreels for multiple GoT seasons. Not sure how many seasons as these are hard to find on mobile. Work looks good. http://www.pixomondo.com/portfolio/game-of-thrones/ http://www.pixomondo.com/portfolio/game-thrones-season-6/
Addressing Trump's win perhaps? The change in front runner and probably some budget changes after the Netflix deal. Possibly a response in the reaction to that first CGI render of the ship - maybe they underestimated the reaction and quality of the work required.
I just want them to do a good hero-ship for us, based on Ken/Ralphs's designs. I don't know why they can't also keep some in-house guys for the ship of the week.