About the role
Company Overview
Virtuos harnesses the latest technologies to make games better and more immersive. Founded in 2004, it is one of the largest independent video game development companies, with headquarters in Singapore and offices across Asia, Europe, and North America. The company specializes in full-cycle game development and art production, having delivered content for over 1,500 console, PC, and mobile games for 23 of the top 25 gaming companies worldwide. Virtuos Kuala Lumpur (KL), launched in 2022, consists of a multicultural team of industry veterans covering technical capabilities from art to engineering.
About the Position
Virtuos is seeking a dynamic and visionary Creative Director to lead a team through the full development cycle from initial concept to final release. This role is instrumental in driving the expansion of the studio’s creative capabilities toward ambitious, large-scale full-development projects.
Responsibilities
Pitching
- Work with core team members and studio management to identify pitching opportunities based on studio strengths and market trends.
- Drive the creation of high-quality materials to communicate the game vision to clients and publishers.
- Build trust with clients and publishers through a proven track record and in-person/online meetings.
- Act as a key factor in securing new, large-scale opportunities for the studio.
Creative Leadership
- Provide leadership to the Game Design team, inspiring and guiding them to achieve creative excellence.
- Develop and communicate the creative vision for projects, ensuring alignment with company and project goals in collaboration with sister studios and clients.
- Provide feedback and critique to the design team and offer direction to design teams across the Virtuos group.
- Maintain high quality standards across all game design aspects through constructive feedback and guidance.
Design Strategy
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including art, engineering, animation, and production.
- Develop and implement design strategies that elevate gameplay, storytelling, and player experience.
Team Management
- Build and lead a high-performing design team in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
- Mentor and develop designers, providing support for professional growth, and conduct performance reviews.
- Liaise with studio management and recruitment to assist with design department planning and hiring strategies.
Project Oversight
- Leverage experience in full development to set goals and milestones.
- Deliver content from concept to completion, ensuring design goals are met within scope, schedule, and budget.
- Take local ownership of the Virtuos Originals project program.
- Advocate for projects throughout every stage from concept to release.
Innovation and Industry Trends
- Stay informed regarding industry trends, new titles, and emerging technologies to integrate relevant innovations.
- Encourage a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a leader within game design with a successful track record of delivering critically acclaimed AAA titles throughout the full development cycle.
- Strong leadership and management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a creative team.
- In-depth knowledge of game design principles, mechanics, and player psychology.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Extensive industry experience with a strong, pre-established network.
- At least 2 shipped AAA titles on Gen 7+ in a leadership position.
- 13+ years of experience in game design, including a minimum of 5 years in a leadership role.
- Fluency in written and spoken English, including comfort on video calls.
- Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Interactive Media, or a related field is desirable but not essential.
What We Offer
- Rewarding career path with long-term potential.
- Network of talented and driven peers.
- Exposure to major franchises and industry-leading names.
- Competitive salary and social benefits.
- Skill development in the latest platforms and technology.
- Constant training and career development.
- International mobility opportunities via the Virtuos Internal Mobility Program.
- Staff activities and company-sponsored outings.
- Healthy work-life balance environment.
- Inclusive and diverse workplace culture.