Lead Animator

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Lead Animator to join their award-winning studio in Leeds . You will be responsible for guiding the animation team to create compelling and lifelike character performances and dynamic motion graphics that define the visual identity of our projects. This is a pivotal role where you will blend artistic direction with technical oversight, ensuring that animations meet the highest standards of quality and storytelling. Join a passionate team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of interactive entertainment and visual arts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of animators, setting clear artistic goals and providing constructive feedback.
• Oversee the creation of high-quality character animations, facial animations, and motion graphics for all project assets.
• Develop and implement animation pipelines, style guides, and best practices to ensure consistency and efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with character artists, game designers, and directors to achieve the desired aesthetic and narrative impact.
• Ensure animations are technically sound, optimized for performance, and integrate smoothly into the game engine or production pipeline.
• Manage animation tasks, deadlines, and resource allocation for the animation department.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience in animation , with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating exceptional animation skills across various styles and applications (characters, creatures, motion graphics).
• Proficiency in industry-standard animation software such as Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, and relevant game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Deep understanding of animation principles, cinematography, and character performance.
• Experience with motion capture cleanup and integration is a plus.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
• Opportunities to lead innovative animation projects.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A vibrant studio culture in Leeds with regular team events.