Production Director

Who is PlaySide?

PlaySide Studios is a dynamic and innovative company that employs individuals across Australia & New Zealand. As Australia's largest publicly listed independent video game developer, PlaySide is committed to delivering cutting-edge interactive experiences across mobile, VR, AR, and PC platforms. With a diverse portfolio of more than 60 titles and collaborations with industry giants like Netflix and Activision Blizzard, working at PlaySide is not just a job but an opportunity to be part of innovating the gaming industry.

Position Overview

As the Production Director, you will be the guiding force behind the production department, overseeing the successful execution of projects and ensuring our team achieves greatness. You are to cultivate a harmonious and efficient production environment with all our titles at any one time. Leading our teams with unwavering determination and fostering a culture of excellence. From ideation to completion, you will orchestrate the journey, working closely with cross-functional teams to bring our visions to life.

Key Responsibilities:

• Partner with the executive team to develop and execute the overall production strategy, ensuring alignment with long-term business goals.
• Lead and mentor the entire production department across all business units, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and wellbeing.
• Own and implement company-wide frameworks for Scope, Capacity, and Risk Management to ensure predictable and efficient delivery.
• Oversee all production staff development, including performance evaluations, goal setting, and team health strategies.
• Ensure the successful execution and on-time delivery of PlaySide's entire portfolio of products, from concept to launch.
• Work directly with General Managers and department Directors on strategic resource planning and execution for the game portfolio.
• Establish robust reporting systems to provide stakeholders with clear, timely insights into project status, risks, and team health.
• Act as the primary escalation point for production challenges, identifying and resolving systemic issues to ensure project success.
• Serve as a key subject matter expert in milestone reviews, providing project health updates and strategic advice directly to the CEO.
• Drive the continuous improvement of production methodologies, staying abreast of industry trends to elevate studio-wide best practices.

What You Bring to The Table:

• Proven experience as a Production Director or similar leadership role in the game development industry.
• A strong track record of successfully leading and delivering high-quality projects..
• Have experience rolling out large and/or complex changes within a business.
• Fluent in outsource management.
• Excellent leadership and team management abilities, with the skill to motivate and inspire others.
• Exceptional organisational and multitasking skills, adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, with a keen eye for detail and a strategic mindset.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, fostering collaboration and building strong relationships.
• Passion for game development and a deep understanding of industry dynamics and trends.
• Practical experience in Agile project management methodologies is a must.

Bonus Points

• Basic understanding and appreciation of other disciplines, especially game design.
• Experience with projects involving multiple internal/external partners and established franchises, requiring close collaboration with publishers.
• Strong passion for video games and the online experience.

What We Offer Here at PlaySide

• Playdays – an additional 5 paid days off per year to do something you love.
• Incredible studios based in gorgeous Port Melbourne, right next to the city and many public transport options.
• Industry-leading Parental Leave benefits.
• Relocation Assistance.
• Employee Assistance Program to support mental well-being.
• Mentoring opportunities to help you grow in your role.
• Half-price state-of-the-art Gym access (right next door) – you can wear your free PlaySide swag
• Social events including Games night, karaoke nights, Movie Nights (We hire out the cinema), group activities, and food trucks Just as some examples