A unique opportunity has arisen to develop, lead and grow the animation department at RealtimeUK. This exciting role will report directly into the Head of Production, with animation and character work at the forefront of our future plans. We are looking for a Head of Animation with significant experience in Games/Film VFX who retains a significant hands-on focus but has the ability to build, develop and maintain client relationships. You will also oversee all work within the department, focusing on both the creative and technical process.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Ability to direct engaging character performance.
* Deliver appealing animation through Creative Story Telling.
* Design and development of standardised workflows and processes for different types of work.
* Ensuring the right tools, are in place to deliver the highest quality work in an efficient manner.
* Clearly communicating the technical requirements for input data from upstream departments.
* Ensuring output meets the technical requirements provided by downstream departments.
* Cross departmental communication and collaboration.
* Implementing strategies to improve operational efficiency on an on-going basis.
* Acting on the outcome of project debriefs.
* Delivering creative realisation to the Client and ensuring creative continuity across projects.
* Providing creative and technical leadership, support and feedback for all Artists.
* Delivering the output of the department to the required technical quality standards.
* Maximising productivity across the department and across department dependencies.
* Delivery plans and schedules for projects.
* Talent Development and Training, Performance management. Annual and on-going appraisals.
* Implementing training plans to ensure artists are prepared for upcoming work.

MUST HAVE SKILLS & QUALITIES:

* Highly creative with the passion to still be hands on in animation.
* A strong technical background in Max/Maya with efficient rigging knowledge desirable.
* Deep understanding of animation within visual effects for games/ film / television.
* Experience as an animation supervisor or animation director within a VFX studio.
* Excellent client management skills, and a proven record of securing business through pitches.

ABOUT YOU:

* An excellent negotiator with impeccable relationship management skills.
* An effective people coach, with a focus on team development.
* A desire to develop our approach to animation and deliver new content into the company.
* An absolute passion for animation and delivering the highest quality work at all times.


PACKAGE/WHAT WE OFFER:

* Vibrant and creative work atmosphere with a highly experienced production team.
* Excellent development studios in the Lancashire countryside and Manchester city centre.
* State of the art equipment, facilities and software.
* Collaborative and inclusive culture - opportunity to work across multiple areas and grow.
* Competitive salary
* Company bonus structure
* Company pension scheme
* Childcare vouchers