Overview

ABOUT IMAGE ENGINE

Well known for our work on Neill Blomkamp’s District 9, Image Engine has gone on to create numerous incredible creatures, epic environments and extraordinary digital effects for a broad range of feature films! We are led by a team of creative and passionate individuals who are committed to furthering the art of visual storytelling, and helping our exceptionally talented crew to push the boundaries of artistic and technical achievement at our studio.

POSITION PURPOSE

The Production Manager (PM) position is vital to the successful delivery of high quality visual effects for our clients. The PM will act as a liaison between the Producer and Coordinators to manage, conform, and drive the schedule to ensure on time project delivery. The PM will be on the pulse of the production floor at all times. They will use their organizational skills to keep track of all shots and their statuses in order to clearly debrief any big picture schedule or production impacts to the Producer.
PMs will use their calm and positive demeanor, to resolve issues as they arise. They will adapt to change and have the ability to modify schedules as client needs shift. They keep track of workflow progress through personal interactions with Coordinators, Department Supervisors as well as Shotgun. They will alert the Producer of any issues which may result in workflow delays.
The PM will manage, coach, and guide direct and indirect reports to ensure smooth interdepartmental communication and workflow. They will take accountability for show progress and will utilize their people skills to manage direct reports to meet show deadlines. PMs will be responsible for employee performance management and supervision within their team.
Equally, the PM will motivate the artists and production team during peak periods. They will take initiative to develop employee engagement initiatives with HR to maintain/increase morale.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Interview, select and train Coordinators
Engage in the performance management process such as performance reviews, daily feedback, and mentoring for direct reports (2-5 people)
Manage workflow to balance production schedule and employee resources
Communicate artist and resource requirements to the Producer to ensure the most cost effective and efficient production
Tracking actual days vs. bid days on all disciplines and flagging concerns
Responsible for watching over the day-to-day operations of the show within the facility
Work with VFX Producer to determine milestones to create and maintain the project schedule
Understand elements impacting departments to foresee/prevent challenges in schedule
Participate in client meetings as needed
Communicate with external vendors for outsourcing purposes
Work with Technical Assistant Supervisor to manage render farm usage
Work with the VFX Producer to support bidding processes
Work with the VFX Producer and Facility PM to manage and allocate personnel resources in a multi-show environment
Manage, mentor and empower Production Coordinators and Production Assistants in their respective areas
Effectively manage of facility resources such as the review theatre, boardroom, and other technical resources
Use time management skills to schedule meetings and tasks effectively
Manage time and resources to meet weekly targets
Other duties and responsibilities consistent with your position may be assigned to you from time to time

Technical skills

Ability to train and coach production staff
5 years’ experience in film, television or animation
3 years’ experience as Senior Coordinator
Supervisory experience is an asset
Proven experience with project management
Expert MS Excel skills
Proven experience with Shotgun or other production management software
MS Project and Filemaker knowledge is an asset
Thorough understanding of live-action and CG based VFX workflows

Core skills

Highly organized, first-class time/project management skills
Excellent client and crew management skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Capable of motivating and leading a large team, with enthusiasm and clarity
Ability to stay calm under pressure
Excellent time management skills