Design Director

About This Role

This leadership role involves guiding and enhancing game design quality across global studios, managing and mentoring design teams, and shaping project design strategies. The Design Director will collaborate with production and cross-functional leaders to ensure successful delivery of high-quality game experiences, directly impacting designer growth and fostering strong cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day management of the Design Department in collaboration with the Associate Design Director
• Assess and implement growth plans for the Design Department
• Work closely with Studio leadership for team strategy and hiring
• Work closely with the Executive Production and Studio Leadership team to pitch, plan, and kick off new projects
• Assign designers to projects based on their strengths and the project's specific requirements
• Support producers in establishing and refining design processes
• Guide design leads throughout projects to ensure quality and maintain a healthy working environment
• Review client deliveries and implement improvements as needed, occasionally contributing hands-on when necessary
• Assess project quality and design team performance, reporting regularly to the Production team
• Evaluate individual designer performance and set personal development goals
• Organize and promote training programs, best practices, and internal resources to support designer growth
• Partner with HR in the recruitment and onboarding of new designers

Requirements

• Minimum 10 years of experience in the game industry in a design-related role
• Broad design expertise, including systems, levels, and some UI experience
• Shipped at least two titles as a lead designer
• Strong creative thinking and the ability to communicate ideas clearly
• Excellent communication skills across different experience levels and cultures
• Strong organizational skills, especially in time management
• Proven leadership in team building and mentorship
• Genuine interest in people development and human relations

Nice to have:

• Basic knowledge of art and code

About the Company

Founded in 2004, Virtuos is one of the largest independent video game development companies, headquartered in Singapore with offices in Asia, Europe, and North America. Specializing in full-cycle game development and art production, the company has delivered high-quality content for more than 1,500 console, PC, and mobile games, serving 23 of the top 25 gaming companies worldwide. Virtuos Kuala Lumpur (KL), officially launched in 2022, is home to a multicultural team of talented and passionate game developers covering a wide range of technical capabilities from art to engineering.