Chief Technical Officer (Head of Virtual Production) in Belfast

About the job

Role: Chief Technical Officer (CTO) – (Head of Virtual Production)

Reports to: CEO

Location: Belfast Harbour Studios, Northern Ireland

Contract Type: Permanent

Introduction and Background

Studio Ulster Ltd is a ground‑breaking large‑scale Virtual Production creative technology company established in early 2024 and launching to market in Q4 2024 in Northern Ireland. This new company will provide world class In‑Camera Visual Effects (ICVFX) in one of the most advanced LED Volume Stages, Motion Capture Stage and 3D/4D Scanning stages currently being built anywhere in the world. This scalable facility will support virtual production solutions and productions of any size located at Belfast Harbour Studios, only 10 minutes’ drive from Belfast City Centre.

The Ideal Candidate

Studio Ulster Ltd is looking for a Chief Technical Officer – someone who is experienced at the very highest level of the film industry to lead on the technical delivery of Virtual Production in all its forms at the studio. This is an Executive level role with strategic responsibilities for the technical services at Studio Ulster. The CTO will oversee the technical teams and lead on all technical operations and production services delivery at Studio Ulster.

Key Duties

• Technical Leadership: Provide strategic direction and oversight for all technical aspects of virtual production, including in‑camera visual effects, 3D scanning, and motion capture.
• Project Management: Oversee the technical delivery of projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards in line with international client expectations.
• Innovation: Drive the development and implementation of new technologies and workflows that enhance the efficiency and quality of virtual production.
• Team Management: Line‑manage, lead, mentor, and develop a team of high calibre technical professionals, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence to the highest possible standards.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, including creatives, production, art departments, VFX leads and administrative teams, to ensure seamless integration of technical solutions.
• Technical Standards: Establish and maintain new benchmarks for the technical standards and quality of virtual production services in studio and develop protocols for your team in best practices for virtual production, ensuring compliance with new and emerging industry standards.
• Resource Management: Manage technical resources, including equipment, software, and facilities, to ensure optimal performance and utilisation.
• R&D: Lead research and development initiatives to explore new technologies and techniques in virtual production that will support Studio Ulster’s ambition to remain world leading in the field.
• Client Liaison: Serve as the technical point of contact for clients, providing expert advice and solutions to meet their needs.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage budgets for technical projects, ensuring financial efficiency and accountability.
• Quality Assurance: Implement robust quality assurance processes to ensure the highest standards of technical delivery at every stage ensuring a high‑quality service to clients using the facility.
• Training: Develop and deliver training programmes to continually enhance the technical skills and knowledge of your department at Studio Ulster.
• Advisor: Advise the CEO and senior team on technological advancements and industry trends that could promote new income streams for Studio Ulster.

Essential Criteria

• Three or more demonstrable screen credits as Virtual Production Supervisor / Virtual Production project management / HoD level or similar on international film and high‑end television productions.
• 5‑10 years’ experience in the creative technologies field primarily in VFX for international level productions with demonstrable emphasis on real‑time technologies.
• Hold at least three major virtual production credits at the very highest level on large scale international productions.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering complex technical projects on time and within budget.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities.
• In‑depth knowledge of industry standards and best practices in virtual production.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to think creatively and strategically.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to drive innovation and implement new technologies.
• Experience managing risk and understanding client needs.
• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

Desirable Criteria

• Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field.
• Experience in research and development within the creative technologies sector.
• Expert knowledge of real‑time rendering engines (e.g. Unreal Engine).
• Experience working with high‑profile international clients and managing client relationships.
• Published research or thought leadership in the field of virtual production.
• Membership in relevant professional organisations or networks.
• Familiarity with the latest trends and developments in the screen industry.

Benefits

Studio Ulster offers a competitive salary package that is commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate. This package includes a comprehensive benefits suite and bonuses which aligns with the industry standards and reflects our commitment to the wellbeing of our team.

EEO Statement

We welcome applications from all members of society, irrespective of age, disability, sexual orientation, race, gender, religion, or belief. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.