Lead Designer (Game Design)

Location: Guildford, UK; hybrid work with a minimum of 3 days per week on-site.

Company

hirify.global is a video game development studio with offices in Guildford and Utrecht, developing AAA game projects with a focus on quality and player experience.

What you will do

• Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary design team covering systems, level, and technical design.
• Shape the creative vision of an unannounced AAA arcade racing project and turn ideas into compelling gameplay experiences.
• Create and maintain design documentation, including high-level design pillars and feature specifications.
• Prototype and iterate features through playtesting and feedback before full production.
• Collaborate with engineering, art, technical direction, production, and the Chief Creative Officer to scope features against technical constraints, budget, and schedule.
• Track market trends and competitor titles and represent the design team in external partner reviews and presentations.

Requirements

• Experience shipping multiple AAA PC and console titles as a Lead Designer.
• Strong understanding of systems design, level design, and game feel.
• Passion for games and broad knowledge of titles across genres and eras.
• Player-first mindset and ability to advocate for the end-user experience.
• Proven experience leading and motivating teams with a curious and open approach.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly articulate design intent to creative and technical colleagues.
• Hands-on experience with Unreal Engine.
• Ability to give and receive constructive criticism and make difficult decisions when priorities conflict.
• Calm, decisive, and empathetic approach, particularly around key milestones.

Nice to have

• Programming or scripting knowledge, such as C++ or Blueprints.
• Familiarity with art packages such as Photoshop.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible hybrid working with 3 days per week on-site.
• International AAA game projects and access to cutting-edge hardware.
• Holiday accrual scheme, pension plan, life assurance, and private healthcare including dental and eye care.
• Discretionary bonus scheme and employee assistance programme with wellness support.
• Regular team incentives and social events.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Hiring process

• Applications close at 15:00 BST on 6 November 2026.
• Applications will receive a response after the closing date.
• Support or feedback regarding the interview process can be requested.