Sr Manager, Game Design

Santa Monica Studio is looking for a Senior Manager to provide strategy and leadership to the Design Department!

In this role you will attract, retain, and develop some of the top Design talent in the industry. You will partner with the Design Director(s) to develop a department strategy and structure that supports the realization of the creative vision, while balancing the business needs of the studio to ensure that project and studio needs are met.   You’ll also play an important role in fostering and maintaining a vibrant and innovative creative culture, and in helping guide the Design team on a path of continual growth and improvement.

• Attract and retain top tier talent to build an industry leading team
• Provide best in class management support to an award-winning team of designers and design managers, proactively communicating blockers and fostering collaborative best practices
• Advocate for opportunities that coincide with individual’s growth and development.
• Partner with Design Director(s) and team leads to develop and execute a multi-year plan for the department, including structure, growth and development, budget and discipline-specific staffing plans
• Provide career development and growth opportunities for all designers including mentoring and guidance on soft skills, leadership, performance and professional management – 1:1’s, training opportunities, annual reviews, job descriptions and Design career guide
• Establish clear expectations of accountability and responsibility across all levels of the Design Department
• Identify, advocate, develop and guide new Leaders in partnership with team leads and Design Director(s)
• Represent the Design department at the studio level
• Maintain an inspiring and collaborative creative culture, where experimentation, knowledge sharing, feedback and iteration are encouraged to reach our studio ambition

• Deep knowledge of the craft of Design and its relevant development processes is essential
• Proven ability in conflict resolution with a high level of empathetic and listening skills
• Experience with sourcing, engaging, and managing external Design vendors and outsourcing partners
• Familiarity with industry standard & future-facing methodologies for AAA Design toolsets, workflows and process
• Excellent organizational & prioritization skills, attention to detail, process knowledge and ability to multi-task
• Personal leadership style that is grounded in transparency, relationship building, accountability, and collaboration.
• Knowledgeable of current industry trends: stays up-to-date on best in class visuals across all departments
• Must love games and have a passion for creating them!

• 10+ years game industry experience
• 5+ years people management experience
• 5+ years Design experience at a lead or higher level
• At least one AAA full development cycle
• Internal development team experience

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