Supervising Director - Series

The Supervising Director guides a talented team of artists while keeping to the style, vision, and creative ambitions required for the project. In this role, you will work side by side with the show creator in all aspects of the pipeline managing the series from pre-production all the way through to post production.

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Culver City, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

• Collaborate with the Supervising Producer to discuss creative ambitions for each episode.
• Be a key driver in developing and advancing the show.
• Collaborate with and understand the Show Creator’s vision and goals.
• Work with the Supervising Producer on shaping the production and resource allocation.
• Participate in vendor review and selection, including any tests.
• Weigh-in on the talent acquisition process with the Supervising Producer and Line Producer to review portfolios and tests, interview candidates, and provide detailed feedback.
• Communicate clearly with all team members, set expectations, and give mindful feedback.
• Take part in design reviews to make sure the design is within scope.
• Always remain aware of show assumptions and the current state of scope and resources and apply them when breaking down scripts and making decisions on story and art.
• Collaborate with the Art Director and Show Creator on rough designs to ensure that artists have appropriate materials and guidance to carry out their work.
• Work with Directors and story team to keep the production on track, giving notes at milestones and throughout the schedule.
• Assist in edit sessions and provide input on timing and pacing.
• Oversee the handoff to the animation production studio.
• Assist the Show Creator in giving feedback and notes until all shots are approved.
• Participate in music & sound design spotting sessions, mixes if requested.

• 3+ years of experience directing episodic animated series.
• 5+ years of story production experience on a series.
• Storyboarding/Directing samples and/or credits demonstrating excellence and inspiration with clarity, comedy, acting, writing, and visual storytelling.
• Knowledge of 2D animation and a detailed understanding of a 2D and 3D production pipeline from pre-production to post production.
• Knowledge of Storyboard Pro, and Photoshop; Maya knowledge is a plus.
• Comfortable working digitally on a Cintiq.
• Must be able to time storyboards to dialogue tracks.
• Experience in leading teams, giving feedback and mentoring artists.
• Outstanding communication skills: ability to guide a unique group of creative staff.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to multitask and work well in a fast paced department.
• Must be willing to take direction and also take the initiative where applicable.
• Able to work independently and set appropriate priorities.
• Trustworthy and able to maintain a high level of discretion.
• Highly organized, resourceful and diligent with excellent interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills.
• Computer and technology literate – familiarity with Mac/PC operating systems, Photoshop, Word, Excel and Gmail.

The anticipated weekly salary for this position is $3,000 to $4,000. This role may also qualify for incentives and/or comprehensive benefits. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location of the position. 

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.