Lead Animation Director - CGI and Feature Animation

About the Role

Our client, a renowned animation studio in East London , is seeking an exceptional Lead Animation Director to guide the creative vision and execution of their CGI and feature animation projects.

This pivotal role requires a visionary leader with a deep understanding of character performance, storytelling, and the technical aspects of animation production.

You will be responsible for inspiring and directing the animation team to achieve breathtaking performances that bring characters and stories to life.

The ideal candidate possesses a proven track record in feature animation, a strong artistic sensibility, and exceptional leadership skills.

This is a fantastic opportunity to shape award-winning animated content and contribute significantly to the burgeoning animation industry in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of animators to achieve the highest standards of character performance and storytelling.
• Oversee the animation pipeline from storyboarding and pre-visualization to final rendering and compositing.
• Collaborate closely with directors, story artists, and other department leads to define the animation style and vision for projects.
• Ensure the artistic quality, emotional depth, and technical execution of all animated sequences.
• Provide clear and constructive feedback to animators, fostering a creative and collaborative environment.
• Review animation dailies and approve shots, ensuring they meet project requirements and artistic goals.
• Troubleshoot animation-related challenges and implement innovative solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in animation technology, software, and techniques.
• Contribute to the development of character rigs and animation tools.
• Participate in production meetings and effectively communicate animation progress and challenges.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in animation, with at least 3 years in a leadership role (e. g., Lead Animator, Animation Supervisor) on CGI feature films or high-end animated series.
• Exceptional understanding of character performance, acting principles, timing, and staging.
• Proficiency in industry-standard animation software (e. g., Maya, Blender, Houdini).
• Strong knowledge of the entire animation production pipeline.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to provide clear, constructive, and motivating feedback.
• A strong artistic eye and a deep appreciation for visual storytelling.
• Experience with performance capture and real-time animation workflows is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced production environment.
• A portfolio demonstrating outstanding animation work and leadership capabilities is essential.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Opportunity to lead animation on prestigious feature film projects in East London .
• Work with a talented and passionate team of artists and creatives.
• Access to state-of-the-art animation facilities and technology.
• Significant creative input and artistic ownership.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday leave.
• Professional development opportunities and training programs.
• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
• Be a key contributor to the growth of the animation industry in East London .