Lead Production Designer

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly creative Lead Production Designer to lead art direction for theatre, film, and TV projects in Johannesburg. You will oversee design teams from concept through execution, ensuring a cohesive visual narrative across media.

Bring 8+ years of production design experience, a strong portfolio, and mastery of AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, and Adobe Creative Suite. This hybrid role offers dynamic collaboration with directors and producers and opportunities for career growth

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Fine Arts, Theatre Design, Film Production, Architecture, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in production design for film, television, or theatre.
• Strong portfolio showcasing diverse design projects.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Adobe Creative Suite, and 3D modeling software.
• Demonstrated leadership of creative teams.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative visual designs for theatre, film, television, and interactive experiences.
• Lead and mentor a team of art directors, set designers, costume designers, and prop masters.
• Collaborate with directors and producers to define artistic vision and aesthetic for each project.
• Oversee mood boards, storyboards, sketches, and 3D models to present design concepts.
• Manage design budgets, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Ensure design elements align with narrative, tone, and technical requirements.
• Source and procure materials, props, and set dressing within budget.
• Conduct site visits and surveys for location-based productions.
• Stay updated on trends and technologies in production design.
• Present proposals and updates to stakeholders at project stages.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Creativity

Time management

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Fine Arts/Theatre Design/Film Production/Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Rhino

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Illustrator

InDesign

3D modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative force in the South African arts and entertainment sector, is seeking a highly creative and experienced Lead Production Designer to join their esteemed team in Johannesburg. This role is pivotal in shaping the visual identity and aesthetic direction of major projects, from concept development through to final execution. The successful candidate will oversee all design aspects, ensuring a cohesive and impactful visual narrative across various media platforms. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record of conceptualizing and delivering stunning visual designs that resonate with diverse audiences and elevate the artistic quality of productions. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant contribution to high-profile projects within a collaborative and inspiring environment. The position requires a blend of artistic vision, technical proficiency, and strong leadership skills to guide design teams and collaborate effectively with directors, producers, and other creative stakeholders. The role is based in the vibrant city of Johannesburg.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative visual designs for theatre, film, television, and interactive experiences.
• Lead and mentor a team of art directors, set designers, costume designers, and prop masters.
• Collaborate closely with directors and producers to define the artistic vision and aesthetic for each project.
• Oversee the creation of mood boards, storyboards, sketches, and 3D models to present design concepts.
• Manage design budgets, timelines, and resource allocation effectively.
• Ensure that all design elements align with the project's narrative, tone, and technical requirements.
• Source and procure materials, props, and set dressing in accordance with design specifications and budget constraints.
• Conduct site visits and surveys for location-based productions.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies in production design and visual arts.
• Present design proposals and updates to stakeholders at various project stages.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Fine Arts, Theatre Design, Film Production, Architecture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in production design for film, television, or theatre.
• A strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of successful design projects.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and potentially 3D modeling software.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing creative teams.
• Excellent understanding of set construction, lighting, costume, and prop design principles.
• Exceptional conceptualization, visualization, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced Johannesburg environment.
• Passion for the arts and a keen eye for detail and aesthetics.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits. This includes medical aid, a retirement fund contribution, and opportunities for professional development and further training.
• Employees will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and a creative work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration.
• You'll be working on exciting and challenging projects that offer significant scope for artistic expression and career advancement within the flourishing arts and entertainment industry in Gauteng.
• The role also includes paid time off and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• This hybrid position offers a balance between in-office collaboration and personal flexibility.
• We are committed to fostering a supportive workplace culture.