Head of Tools, Animation Studio

Description

Rovio has been growing rapidly after the phenomenal success of Angry Birds. We are now looking for a Head of Tools to join our Animation team in Espoo, Finland.

Head of Tools oversees the pipeline development and is responsible for all aspects of the animation technology at an animation studio. This includes everything from scripts and plugins for commercial applications, production tracking, asset management, render farm and editorial. Head of Tools works closely with other Head of Departments, the Head of Production Technology and the Director of IT.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Managing and developing the pipeline for the animation studio
• Managing the team of tools developers
• Supervising and reviewing the work produced by the tools team, code checking
• Understanding the implications of performance, UX, quality, technical, scheduling and budgetary requirements
• Driving make or buy discussions and decisions
• Devising methods to increase efficiency
• Providing strong team leadership and mentorship to increase code quality and team productivity
• Motivating the team through demonstrated leadership ability and professional example
• Encouraging collaborative team approach locally and globally
• Clearly establishing performance expectations for direct reports in collaboration with Studio Managers to provide support and direction across Pipeline team
• This position is 50% hands on coding and 50% managing the pipeline and team.

Requirements:

• 5+ years experience including experience as a technical supervisor within the VFX / Animation industry
• M.Sc. degree in Computer Science or equivalent as well as experience with C++, Python, Qt, PyQT, databases etc.
• Proven track record in handling animation studio pipeline and workflow
• Knowledge of Shotgun, Tank, Thinkbox Deadline, Toonboom Harmony, TVPaint, Adobe CC, Maya, Nuke, Houdini (or similar) APIs would be advantageous
• Ability to manage small teams, making the most of individual strengths whilst retaining talent
• Effective communication skills and project management skills
• Fluent English. 

Head of Tools must be able to take overall responsibility in a studio pipeline. Being able to lead pipeline and tools developers and software engineers in collaborative process with multiple teams is a core quality for Head of Tools. Together with Director of IT and the Head of Production Technology, Head of Tools must be able to meet deadlines, budget and other aspects in order to provide scalable, robust and efficient infrastructure for the animation studio in the future. Fluent English is also required in this role.

We offer a great opportunity to take part in the development of the firm, great colleagues with team-oriented, informal, international and, inspiring working environment. 

Please note that this position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate has been found, so send your application at the speed of a slingshot and apply today. 

We look forward to hearing from you soon!