
For over 35 years, Bardel Entertainment has been a cornerstone of the global animation industry. While we have grown into one of the most prominent studios in North America, our heart remains firmly grounded in the creative roots of animation. We believe that through the powerful combination of fresh ideas, innovative techniques, and a collaborative spirit, anything is possible.
To maintain our high standards of production excellence, we are seeking a highly organized and proactive Studio Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our Vancouver headquarters. This is a critical leadership role responsible for ensuring that our world-class creative and corporate teams have a seamless, stable, and well-supported environment in which to bring stories to life.
Role Overview: Studio Manager
| Category | Details |
| Company Name | Bardel Entertainment |
| Position Title | Studio Manager |
| Function | Corporate & Studio Operations |
| Office Location | Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada |
| Employment Type | Full-time, Permanent |
| Work Model | On-site (Full-time presence at Vancouver HQ required) |
| Salary Range | $72,000.00 – $85,000.00 CAD per year |
| Experience Level | 5+ Years in Facilities or Studio Operations |
The Vision of the Studio Manager
The Studio Manager is the heartbeat of our physical workspace. In a fast-paced animation environment, the physical infrastructure must be as agile as the digital pipeline. You will be responsible for overseeing all facilities, managing essential vendor relationships, and driving process improvements that enhance the “workplace experience” for our artists and staff.
We are looking for a solutions-oriented professional who can balance high-level space planning with hands-on operational tasks. Whether you are negotiating a service contract with a landlord or troubleshooting a facility issue to prevent production downtime, your work ensures that Bardel remains a functional, safe, and inspiring place to work.
1. Core Studio Operations
You will lead the day-to-day functional aspects of the Vancouver studio to ensure a fully supported production environment:
- Operational Stability: Resolve studio-wide issues quickly to ensure minimal disruption to active projects and deadlines.
- Service Delivery: Oversee general studio services and ensure that all departments receive consistent operational support.
- Organization: Maintain a meticulous level of organization across all facilities, balancing competing priorities and shifting production demands.
2. Facilities, Space Planning & Maintenance
Managing the physical “canvas” of the studio is a primary focus:
- Project Management: Lead the planning and execution of office builds, refurbishments, and cyclical space reconfigurations as team sizes evolve.
- General Upkeep: Administer all site maintenance, including repairs to fixtures and fittings, HVAC, and general building upkeep.
- Landlord Liaison: Act as the primary point of contact for building landlords and property managers regarding maintenance and building operations.
- Inventory & Storage: Oversee storage room organization, access control systems, and ongoing infrastructure maintenance.
3. Vendor, Supplier & Property Management
- Strategic Sourcing: Qualify, select, and manage third-party vendors to ensure Bardel receives high-quality service at the best possible cost.
- Relationship Management: Maintain strong ongoing partnerships with suppliers, ensuring all work is delivered to agreed standards and timelines.
- Contract Administration: Support the negotiation and management of service contracts and facility-related agreements.
4. Systems, Ticketing & Operational Support
- Ticketing Management: Maintain and manage the studio’s internal ticketing and intake systems for operational requests.
- Efficiency Tracking: Monitor recurring issues and implement process improvements to increase operational efficiency and service quality.
- Response Prioritization: Ensure that all studio-related inquiries are resolved in a timely and professional manner.
5. Business Continuity & Risk Management
- Emergency Preparedness: Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop and maintain business continuity, disaster recovery, and emergency plans.
- Safety Protocols: Ensure the studio is compliant with all local health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Risk Mitigation: Anticipate operational risks and proactively resolve issues before they impact production schedules.
6. Financial Controls
- Budget Oversight: Monitor and control petty cash and operational spending, ensuring accurate tracking and compliance.
- Cost Efficiency: Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising the quality of the workplace environment.
Experience & Education
- Proven Tenure: 5+ years of experience in facilities management, property management, or studio operations. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in animation, VFX, film, or television.
- Project History: Demonstrated experience managing office relocations and space fit-outs from the planning phase through to execution.
- Academic Background: Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Commerce, Entertainment, or a related field is considered a strong asset.
Technical & Operational Knowledge
- Building Systems: A strong understanding of plumbing, HVAC, electrical, security, and fire safety systems.
- Regulatory Awareness: Knowledge of local building codes and Provincial British Columbia legislation relevant to workplace operations.
- Space Optimization: Familiarity with modern workplace solutions and portfolio optimization.
- Software Proficiency: High proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and experience with operational ticketing systems.
Personal Attributes & Physical Requirements
- Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to interact professionally with everyone from entry-level artists to executive leadership.
- Discretion: The ability to use tact and maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive studio information.
- Ownership Mindset: A proactive, problem-solving attitude with the ability to work independently.
- Physical Capability: * Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and climb ladders to access facility infrastructure.
- Ability to use hand/power tools for minor repairs or furniture assembly.
- Valid Driver’s License and access to a vehicle are required.
- Bonus: A valid First Aid Certificate is a significant plus.
Life at Bardel Entertainment
By joining the Bardel Entertainment team in Vancouver, you become part of a community that values individual accountability and creative empowerment. Although this is an on-site role, you are the architect of a workplace culture that supports both remote and in-person collaboration.
What We Offer:
- Competitive Compensation: A salary range of $72,000 – $85,000 CAD, tailored to your experience and skills.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Extended health and wellness coverage from day one.
- Career Growth: Opportunities to lead major studio initiatives and influence the operational future of a world-renowned animation house.
- Collaboration: A chance to work directly with Technology, HR, and Production leaders to create a world-class studio environment.
Important Details for Applicants
On-site Requirement: Please note that this role is based at our Vancouver HQ and requires a full-time, in-studio presence to effectively manage facilities and physical operations.
How to Apply: We want to hear from leaders who are passionate about the “how” behind the “wow.” If you have the facilities expertise and the proactive mindset to keep our studio running at peak performance, please submit your resume and cover letter.
Bardel Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.