At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Series Director in overseeing production from design to final edits.
- Company: Join a dynamic animation studio with a focus on creativity and collaboration.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, develop your skills, and work in a vibrant team environment.
- Other info: Contract runs from early July 2026 to late October 2026; UK-based applicants only.
- Why this job: Perfect stepping stone for aspiring directors with real exposure to creative decision-making.
- Qualifications: Experience in TV/animation, strong communication, and leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
As the Assistant Director, you will work closely with the Series Director to help supervise all aspects of production from design stage, through animation to Picture Lock stage. During the pre‑production stages, you will gain an understanding of the Director's creative vision for the episode and help to maintain it through to the final stages of the locked episode. This role offers a meaningful development opportunity, providing hands‑on experience supporting creative direction and collaborating across departments. It serves as a strong stepping stone for anyone looking to progress into directing, with real exposure to high‑level creative decision‑making. You will use day‑to‑day software, including Shotgrid (Flow) and SyncSketch – the team will support you with training to use these tools confidently.
As the successful candidate will need to be based in the UK and will require the right to work in the UK. Please note that this vacancy can close early if we receive a high number of applications. The contracted dates for this opportunity is early July 2026 - late October 2026.
Day to Day
- Manage the day‑to‑day direction of an episode, ensuring the shared vision of the Directors is maintained between key stages, including Design, Assets, Rigging, Storyboards, Voice Records, Editing, Layout, Animation, FX, Lighting and Compositing, and Picture Lock.
- Provide clear and timely decisive feedback to Leads and Heads of Departments, to ensure that Client and Director's notes are understood and production deadlines are met efficiently.
- Oversee revisions and provide notes ongoing to ensure the style and vision for the show is maintained.
- Provide status updates, troubleshoot, and review potential changes on a regular basis with the production crew.
- Where necessary, participate in the hiring process with the Line Producer/Production Manager and the Talent Team to review portfolios and tests, interview candidates, and provide detailed feedback.
Requirements
- Experience in the TV and animation industry with a strong understanding of the animation pipeline, particularly Design, Story, Animation, and Editing.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly understand the director's vision, explain ideas, and deliver constructive feedback.
- Proven experience leading teams and troubleshooting both creative and technical issues.
- Strong problem‑solving abilities and clarity of creative vision, with the skills to communicate that vision effectively.
- Excellent collaboration skills and a solution‑focused approach in a creative environment.
- A passion for storytelling and an understanding of key audiences.
- Ability to manage time efficiently, work to strict deadlines, and maintain focus on the overall vision.
- Adaptable, calm under pressure, and positive in fast‑paced environments.
Assistant Director employer: Blue Zoo Production
As an Assistant Director at our innovative animation studio in the UK, you will thrive in a dynamic and collaborative work culture that values creativity and professional growth. We offer comprehensive training on industry-standard software, alongside opportunities to engage in high-level creative decision-making, making this role a perfect launchpad for your directing career. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to storytelling, where your contributions will be recognised and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and join online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Assistant Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience in the animation pipeline. Use platforms like our website to showcase your work and make it easy for potential employers to see what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and understanding their creative vision. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their projects and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Storytelling:When writing your application, let your love for storytelling shine through! Share examples of how you've contributed to creative projects in the past and how you can bring that passion to our team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Assistant Director role. Highlight your experience in the animation pipeline and how it aligns with our vision at StudySmarter.
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Use straightforward language to explain your ideas and experiences. This will help us understand your creative vision and how you communicate feedback effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Blue Zoo Production
✨Understand the Creative Vision
Before your interview, take some time to research the company’s previous projects and the creative vision behind them. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their style and how you can contribute to maintaining that vision throughout production.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated feedback in past roles. Be ready to discuss specific situations where your clear communication helped resolve issues or improved a project. This is crucial for the Assistant Director role, as you'll need to liaise with various departments.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of a few challenging scenarios you've faced in the animation pipeline and how you overcame them. Highlight your problem-solving skills and your ability to stay calm under pressure, as these traits are essential for managing day-to-day production challenges.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Since this role involves working closely with different teams, prepare to discuss your collaborative experiences. Share how you’ve worked with others to achieve a common goal, and express your enthusiasm for teamwork and creative collaboration in a fast-paced environment.
