About the role
Company Overview
Virtuos is a team of experts dedicated to the shared passion for making and playing games. Since 2004, the company has harnessed the latest technologies to push the boundaries of game development. The culture focuses on exploring new ideas, constant drive to excel, and earning success through dedication. Employees are encouraged to Play, Grow and Win together while creating exciting new experiences daily.
Position Overview
The Design Director is responsible for leading and elevating the quality of game design across global studios. This role involves managing and mentoring design teams, shaping project design strategies, and collaborating with production and cross-functional leadership to ensure the delivery of high-quality game experiences.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the day-to-day management of the Design Department in collaboration with the Asc Design Director.
- Assess and implement growth plans for the Design Department.
- Work closely with Studio leadership for team strategy and hiring.
- Work closely with the Executive Production and Studio Leadership team to pitch, plan and kick off new projects.
- Assign designers to projects based on their strengths and the project’s specific requirements.
- Support producers in establishing and refining design processes.
- Guide design leads throughout projects to ensure quality and maintain a healthy working environment.
- Review client deliveries and implement improvements as needed, occasionally contributing hands-on when necessary.
- Assess project quality and design team performance, reporting regularly to the Production team.
- Evaluate individual designer performance and set personal development goals.
- Organize and promote training programs, best practices, and internal resources to support designer growth.
- Partner with HR in the recruitment and onboarding of new designers.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Minimum 10 years of experience in the game industry in a design-related role.
- Broad design expertise, including systems, levels, and some UI experience.
- Shipped at least two titles as a lead designer.
- Strong creative thinking and the ability to communicate ideas clearly.
- Excellent communication skills across different experience levels and cultures.
- Strong organizational skills, especially in time management.
- Proven leadership in team building and mentorship.
- Genuine interest in people development and human relations.
Preferred Skills
- Basic knowledge of art and code is a plus.