Website Black Kite Studios
Black Kite Studios is an independent, talent-first creative collective redefining the landscape of visual effects and design. We are currently seeking a visionary Lead CG Artist to join our London-based team. This is a pivotal leadership role designed for an elite practitioner who balances technical mastery with the ability to inspire a community of world-class artists. At Black Kite, we don’t just follow the industry—we aim to build the future of it.
Job Overview
- Company: Black Kite Studios
- Position: Lead CG Artist
- Department: Computer Graphics (CG)
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Work Model: Hybrid (Onsite + Remote Flexibility)
- Employment Type: Full-Time
- Seniority Level: Lead / Senior Leadership
Company Overview: The Black Kite Ethos
Black Kite Studios is more than a VFX studio; we are a technology-inspired community built on the belief that extraordinary work stems from a sustainable, people-centric culture. We are independent, ambitious, and unburdened by the rigid rules of traditional legacy houses.
Our mission is to provide world-class visual effects while maintaining an environment where artists can truly live and work well. We prioritize environmental sustainability and ethical production standards, ensuring that our creative output is matched by our commitment to our planet and our people. When you join Black Kite, you aren’t just an employee; you are a culture influencer and a brand ambassador for a studio that values “the extraordinary” in everything we do.
Role Overview
As the Lead CG Artist, you are the engine of creative excellence at Black Kite. You will act as the bridge between high-level conceptualization and technical execution. Your role is to provide both creative and technical leadership across the CG pipeline, ensuring that every project—from initial pitch to final delivery—meets our uncompromising standards.
You will collaborate intimately with VFX Supervisors and Producers to manage complex workflows on high-end VFX projects. This role requires a professional who is as comfortable troubleshooting a Houdini simulation as they are presenting a creative solution to a high-profile client.
Key Responsibilities
1. Creative & Technical Leadership
Solution Architecture: Partner with VFX Supervisors to develop and implement robust technical strategies for complex CG requirements across varied project scales.
Artistic Excellence: Directly contribute to the production of “Outstanding” creative work, setting the benchmark for quality for the rest of the team.
Pipeline Innovation: Actively contribute to the evolution of the CG pipeline and creative workflows, identifying new tools and methodologies to keep Black Kite at the cutting edge.
2. Team Management & Mentorship
Artist Guidance: Lead, manage, and inspire teams of CG artists through the lifecycle of high-end projects, ensuring a cohesive and motivated unit.
Talent Development: Support and mentor junior and mid-level talent, working in tandem with management to establish personal progression plans for your team members.
Feedback Loops: Translate complex client feedback into clear, constructive, and actionable tasks for your team.
3. Production & Client Engagement
Pitching & Bidding: Collaborate with the Production team during the pitching phase to win new business by providing technical insights and creative vision.
Brand Ambassadorship: Represent Black Kite at industry events and awards shows, acting as a professional face for the studio’s values and talent.
Project Delivery: Ensure all assignments are delivered visually “unforgettable,” while strictly adhering to production schedules and budgetary constraints.
Required Qualifications & Technical Skills
Black Kite Studios is seeking a candidate who is “super talented, smart, passionate, and driven to succeed.” The ideal Lead CG Artist will possess:
Proven Experience: A robust portfolio demonstrating the delivery of high-end VFX work within the realms of high-stakes Commercials, Television, or Feature Film.
Leadership Tenure: Demonstrated experience supervising or leading teams of CG artists to successful project completions.
Software Mastery: Deep production-level experience with Houdini and/or Maya.
Rendering Expertise: Expert knowledge of Arnold or other industry-standard rendering engines.
Pipeline Literacy: A comprehensive understanding of the entire VFX pipeline, including 2D workflows and a functional working knowledge of Nuke.
Problem Solving: An innate ability to troubleshoot technical hurdles and provide creative workarounds under pressure.
Scripting (Preferred): Knowledge of Python, VEX, or C++ is considered a significant advantage.
Leadership Expectations & Culture
At Black Kite, “Lead” is an action, not just a title. We expect our Leads to be Culture Influencers. You are someone who:
Thrives in an environment where “breaking rules” leads to innovation.
Values teamwork and togetherness—the “Once a Kite, Always a Kite” philosophy.
Communicates with confidence, transparency, and positivity.
Strives to be the best while ensuring those around them also exceed their potential.
Benefits & Perks
We believe in creating a sustainable future for our family. Our benefits include:
Career Growth: A personalized progression plan to ensure your career grows without limits.
Supportive Environment: Access to a collective of world-class technologists and artists; you are never on your own.
Ethical Workspace: A studio committed to environmental responsibility and ethical working standards.
Inclusion: A transparent policy of equal opportunity, ensuring a diverse and vibrant creative community.
Social & Recognition: Opportunities to represent the studio at prestigious industry awards and events.
Application Process
Black Kite Studios is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.
How to Apply: Qualified candidates are invited to submit their application via our careers portal. Please include:
A comprehensive CV detailing your leadership experience.
A Showreel showcasing your best CG work (please specify your role in each shot).
A brief cover letter outlining why you believe you are a “Culture Influencer” for the future of Black Kite.
To apply for this job please visit joinus.blackkitestudios.com.