Head of IT & Technical Director - award winning animation studio

This role is based in London on a hybrid basis - living in London and/or close enough to commute is preferable. 

Summary:

As Head of IT & Technical Director, your primary objective is to manage and oversee the use of all IT functions and projects throughout the studio.

You will take a lead role in planning and prioritising work on current and future IT systems and manage studio’s day-to-day technical operations including the implementation of new hardware and software solutions, setting roadmaps and policies.

You will be responsible for identifying and resolving IT issues as they arise suggesting improvements and implementing solutions to keep everything on track.

Based at our London Studio, we are in search of an efficient communicator, organised and detail-oriented individual who is ready to tackle challenges and contribute to the success of our studio.

Main responsibilities:

• Take ownership of IT projects from concept to completion working to schedules and agreed timelines and budgets.
• Manage the deployment, development, monitoring, maintenance, upgrading and support of studio’s IT systems to include applications, hardware, OS (MS Windows mainly), storage, and networking.
• Troubleshoot IT issues regarding: applications, hardware, OS (MS Windows mainly), storage, and networking.
• Manage Animation/VFX software licenses, updates and deployments.
• Manage VFX software environments (shared plugins, preferences etc).
• Manage the render farm and its scheduling software.
• Oversee all technology operations and evaluating them according to established goals.
• Assist with establishing IT policies and systems to support the implementation of studio’s wider strategies.
• Create and update documentation explaining IT processes and tools.
• Analyse the requirements of all departments to determine their technology needs.
• Purchase efficient and cost-effective technological equipment and software.
• Inspect the use of technological equipment and software to ensure functionality and efficiency.
• Identify the need for upgrades, configurations or new systems and report to upper management.
• Coordinate, supervise, support IT staff to provide guidance, mentoring and development.
• Assist in building relationships with vendors and creating cost-efficient contracts.
• Offer and give technical help to all staff.

Requirements:

• Min 8 years’ experience ideally in a VFX/Animation/Artistic/creative technology environment.
• Knowledge of VFX/Animation software workflows used across the studio such as Maya, Houdini, Nuke, Unreal Engine and Adobe Suite products.
• Experience in Scripting (Python mostly).
• Advanced understanding of computer hardware, software, storage, network needed in a VFX/Animation/Artistic driven environment.
• Advanced understanding of editing software and hardware (AVID MC and Premiere) and various image file and colour formats used in an Animation/VFX environment.
• Knowledge of MPA-TPN (Trusted Partner Network) IT security policies and implementation guidelines.
• Knowledge in remote desktop workflows and implementation (Teradici - HP AnyWare).
• Knowledge in MS Azure or AWS environments.
• Knowledge in VFX software licensing.
• Ability to prioritise and efficiently work on multiple tasks at a time while remaining mindful of strict deadlines in a dynamic and high-pressure environment.
• Strong problem solving, communication and organisation skills.
• A positive and proactive attitude.

Studio AKA is a multi-BAFTA winning, multi-EMMY awarded and OSCAR-nominated independent animation studio.

We are committed to providing a workplace that welcomes and respects all people regardless of gender identity, sex, sexuality, race, religion, background or belief. We welcome applications from people who are underrepresented in our sector.