Remote Lead Animation Director for Feature Films

About the Role

Our client, a visionary studio at the forefront of digital animation within the Arts & Entertainment industry, is searching for an exceptional Lead Animation Director to join their world-class, fully remote team. This is a unique opportunity to shape the creative direction and artistic execution of groundbreaking animated feature films from anywhere in the world. You will lead and inspire a team of talented animators, guiding the performance, character development, and storytelling through animation. We seek a highly experienced and creatively driven individual with a proven track record of delivering outstanding animated performances and a passion for pushing the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. This remote-first position requires exceptional leadership, communication, and artistic vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide creative leadership and direction to the animation team throughout the production pipeline.
• Oversee and guide the development of character performances, ensuring emotional depth, personality, and storytelling clarity.
• Collaborate closely with the Director, Storyboard Artists, and other department leads to realize the film's vision.
• Establish and maintain the animation style and quality standards for the project.
• Review animation dailies, provide constructive feedback, and ensure technical and artistic objectives are met.
• Mentor and develop animators, fostering a collaborative and inspiring work environment.
• Troubleshoot animation challenges and proactively find creative solutions.
• Participate in storyboarding and pre-visualization to plan key animation sequences.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in animation, with a significant portion in a Lead Animator or Animation Director role on feature films or equivalent high-end projects.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating exceptional character animation skills and a deep understanding of performance, timing, and storytelling.
• Proven experience in leading and mentoring animation teams.
• Expertise in industry-standard animation software ("e.g., Maya, Blender").
• Excellent understanding of anatomy, physics, and acting principles as applied to animation.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills essential for a remote team environment.
• Bachelor's degree in Animation, Fine Arts, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Ability to provide clear and actionable feedback remotely.

Benefits

• Fully remote work arrangement offering global flexibility.
• Opportunity to lead animation on visually stunning and critically acclaimed feature films.
• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including performance bonuses.
• Access to cutting-edge animation tools and technologies.
• Professional development opportunities and participation in industry events.
• Stock options or profit-sharing opportunities.