Head of Art Production

The Head of Art Production will play an integral role in building a robust, cross functional collection of artists, art directors, and creative directors. Initially this role will primarily act as the department producer with heavy involvement in the day-to-day project management to ensure a timely and seamless production of high-quality graphics. The role will evolve into a department leader, overseeing the scheduling and output of the department as a whole and stepping away from the day-to-day project management, with an additional focus on developing and owning a strong rolodex of vetted freelance talent of varying expertises, from design/animation to branding (key art, logos, visual identity). As we expand our presence overseas with our London office, the Head of Art Production will be a key force in shaping how we approach and develop our London capabilities.This is a hybrid work-from-home/onsite position, with the default being work-from-home, but with onsite work on an as-needed basis.Responsibilities:Drive the end-to-end art production process, from concept to delivery.Manage staff & freelancer bandwidth and performance on a daily basis.Build and structure project teams & plans to ensure optimal performance based on understanding of team members' capabilities, expertise, and interests.Initiate and oversee the development of all project briefs - internal, client-facing and vendor (if applicable).Review and provide direction on any art-related budgets and schedules developed by Project Producers to ensure projects are planned in an efficient way that will also yield the highest-quality output.Manage the performance and growth of team members within the department. Identify when new staff roles are needed and work with Resourcing Manager/Recruiter to initiate search, vet top candidates, and make hiring decisions along with the leadership team.Work with the heads of the capture department to continue developing our company's capabilities with the Unreal Engine pipeline, bridging the Art and Capture departments.Build and maintain a strong rapport with clients by being collaborative, consistent and proactive in identifying and addressing their needs.Work closely with the post-production/delivery team to maintain project asset organization and distribution across all platforms, ensuring all project assets consistently are stored and updated per the defined process.Ensure all work is of the highest quality and consistently meets our internal high standards prior to final delivery.Identify process efficiencies, coverage needs, and ways to elevate the department's capabilities.Establish new processes and ensure a solid foundation for future growth and attract top talent.Maintain and foster relationships with third-party motion graphics and animation vendors and freelance artists.Keep abreast of industry trends and new technologies.Skills and Experience:Minimum of 10 years of industry experience in art production, motion graphics, or related fields.Extensive experience in motion graphics and high-end static art creation.Deep understanding of production pipelines for motion graphics and CG/Unreal Engine.Proven track record of creating and managing art departments, including talent management and development.Strong management experience with a focus on leading diverse, creative teams.Experience in film and/or video game marketing.Extensive industry connections with a strong rolodex of talented artists.A desire to evolve and innovate in how the department operates and the areas it works in.Hammer is a creative agency and production studio dedicated to making memorable and impactful integrated campaigns. Founded 30 years ago, we are a leading voice in marketing video games. We are located in Toluca Lake, CA.Hammer Creative, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.