Lead Game Designer (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Lead Game Designer (Gamedev): Leading a team of designers to deliver a high-quality gameplay experience for the new IP Alien Deathstorm with an accent on people management and creative vision. Focus on mentoring designers, optimizing production pipelines, and refining gameplay mechanics for Action and Sandbox genres.

Location: Hybrid (Oxford or Warwick, UK). Must have permanent right to work in the UK; no visa sponsorship provided.

Company

Independent developer and publisher of video games, films, books, and comics with a 30-year history.

What you will do

• Lead and inspire a team of Game Designers using best practice people management techniques.
• Manage team performance and professional development through regular review cycles and actionable feedback.
• Collaborate with Design Directors to balance creative vision with production realities.
• Oversee project design work and mentor designers across all aspects of their roles.
• Plan and conduct gameplay evaluations to fine-tune and improve the overall game experience.
• Ensure correct documentation workflows and processes are followed throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Extensive knowledge of people management best practices.
• Broad experience in game design specialties such as 3Cs, AI, and Economy.
• Expert knowledge of the video game development process, including prototyping and iterating under time constraints.
• Excellent knowledge of production pipelines.
• Permanent right to work in the UK without the need for employer sponsorship.

Nice to have

• Experience working on Action and/or Sandbox games.

Culture & Benefits

• Generous leave package including 22 days holiday, Christmas closure, and Bank holidays.
• Comprehensive health coverage: Private Medical Insurance, dental, and vision.
• Financial security: Life Assurance, Income Protection, and Critical Illness Cover.
• Enhanced Pension Scheme and enhanced Family Leave.
• Mental health and wellbeing support through EAP.
• Relocation package available for eligible candidates.