Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a squad of developers to create high-quality games and drive technical direction.
- Company: Join the innovative Game Studio team at Tombola in Sunderland.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, quarterly bonuses, private healthcare, and free meals.
- Other info: Embrace a hybrid work model and thrive in an inclusive, growth-focused culture.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the gaming industry while mentoring and leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Senior developer with leadership experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Lead Game Developer to join our brilliant Game Studio team at Tombola. The role is based in Sunderland with a hybrid working model—three days in the office and two days remote. You will lead a small squad of developers while working closely with designers, product and other stakeholders to deliver high‑quality games. Stakeholder management and clear communication are essential.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and mentor a squad of developers, providing coaching and 1‑to‑1 feedback.
- Manage squad operations, including holidays and absences.
- Work with designers and product teams to prioritise and deliver features and projects.
- Remain hands‑on with development and drive technical direction.
- Facilitate cross‑functional communication and help move projects forward.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and advocate change.
- Stay up to date with industry trends and explore innovative solutions such as AI.
Qualifications
- Senior developer with leadership experience.
- Strong communication skills, able to work with non‑technical colleagues.
- Experience in managing team holidays, absences and dynamics.
- Ability to mentor junior developers and develop team capability.
- Focus on customer experience and delivering quality software.
- Comfortable with a hybrid work environment.
- Open to learning and adopting new technologies.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and market‑leading benefits.
- Quarterly bonus, private healthcare and hybrid working.
- Free breakfast and lunch in the office.
- Personal development and mental wellbeing support.
- Inclusive culture championing flexibility, personal growth and mental wellbeing.
We are committed to creating opportunities for everyone at Tombola and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Lead Game Developer - Game Studio employer: hackajob
Contact Detail:
hackajob Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Game Developer - Game Studio
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the gaming industry, attend events, and engage with communities online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best projects and contributions. Whether it's games you've developed or features you've led, having tangible evidence of your work can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to game development. Think about how you would lead a team or handle project challenges, and be ready to share your experiences and insights.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our awesome team at Tombola.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Game Developer - Game Studio
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Gaming: When writing your application, let your love for games shine through! Share your experiences and what excites you about game development. We want to see your enthusiasm for creating amazing gaming experiences.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Lead Game Developer role. Highlight your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. We appreciate when candidates take the time to align their skills with our needs.
Be Clear and Concise: In your written application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We value strong communication skills, so make it easy for us to understand your qualifications and experiences.
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 the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised on our end.
How to prepare for a job interview at hackajob
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical skills and the latest trends in game development. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've led teams, as this role is all about leadership and hands-on development.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since clear communication is key for this position, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. Think about examples where you've successfully collaborated with non-technical colleagues or stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
Be ready to talk about how you manage team dynamics, including handling holidays and absences. Share specific strategies you've used to keep your squad motivated and productive, especially in a hybrid work environment.
✨Embrace Innovation
Tombola values innovative solutions, so come prepared with ideas on how you can incorporate new technologies like AI into game development. Show your enthusiasm for staying ahead of industry trends and how you can drive change within the team.