Supervising Real Time Graphics Developer

This position is responsible for the creation, development and deployment of designs, animations, and real-time graphics directories at an expert level of understanding and skill. The role manages directory maintenance and new graphic builds specific to Ross Xpression independently or while leading a team. It communicates with teammates, partners, sponsors and executive-level stakeholders to help set expectations and ensure on-time delivery.

• Provide leadership in the technological growth of the department, driving innovation, researching new products, advising on potential vendors, and assisting with the stability and troubleshooting of rendering, file storage and playout systems
• Own and manage a specialty business segment such as Ross Xpression, Vizrt, interactive, virtual studio, data visualisation or augmented reality.
• Manage a team of direct reports, providing team leadership, direction, troubleshooting and support for innovative system or plant-wide workflows.
• Plan, build, maintain and update complex Ross Xpression graphic directories independently or while leading a team of developers.
• Primarily utilise Ross Xpression, with some Vizrt and potential for Unreal Engine or HTML, in the creation, development and deployment of the highest-level creative
• Use other graphics software such as Adobe Photoshop, After-Effects, Illustrator and Cinema4D to aid design and animation
• Utilise and understand internal proprietary software and workflows.
• Clearly communicate a creative vision and manage expectations with clients while ensuring effective delegation of assignments within the Graphics Innovation Team and keeping management informed and involved when necessary
• Proactively research, plan for and answer technical questions on design/animation techniques and systems at a highly proficient level, independently, by delegation or by leading a group
• Proactively provide and anticipate technical support themselves or by delegating.
• Create system-wide workflows, scripts and processes; coordinate with management to provide feedback, improve processes and apply best practices to all project workflows; plan and implement hardware and/or software upgrades and new studio builds.
• Teach, mentor and assist co-workers, and manage the creation and maintenance of on-boarding and training programmes; proactively collaborate within the ESPN Creative Studio to contribute to long-term initiatives.
• Translate project details and creative direction into custom design, animation and layout solutions
• Push creativity and software skills to the highest levels, find and exploit new technology, and actively communicate on all phases of a project to maintain the quality of ESPN's on-air product
• Manage special assignments such as in-house/off-site training and technical support for packagers, remote freelancers and vendors.

• Minimum of 8 years of experience creating and managing graphics in a live production setting at a major studio, network or production company, with a minimum of 2 years of leadership experience.
• Ability to lead, manage and train developers at all levels.
• Ability to simultaneously contribute to multiple projects playing different roles, including project managing, leading a team or contributing as an individual.
• Expert-level knowledge and understanding of a real-time graphics platform.
• Expert-level grasp of broadcast and television production technologies.
• Industry-leading 2D and 3D animation skills and excellent use of effective type layout.
• Drive to learn, create and apply cutting-edge concepts, techniques and software, and the ability to share skills with others.
• Ability to lead teams while giving and taking direction well.
• Exceptional individual and team communication skills, setting expectations with executives and sponsors.
• Advanced conceptualisation skills, offering unique creative solutions at a plant-wide level, and the ability to communicate a creative vision to stakeholders and other creatives.
• Ability to forecast, plan and implement new hardware, software and studio builds.
• Highly motivated, works well under pressure, effectively prioritises multiple assignments and changes direction easily.
• Keen attention to detail, spelling and grammar.
• Ability and willingness to work flexible hours and occasionally travel and work in a live-TV setting.
• Applicants must provide a link to their online portfolio/demo reel.

• Minimum of 10 years of live broadcast sport or news graphics experience encompassing event and studio workflows.
• Experience managing people and projects.
• Experience presenting creative to clients, stakeholders, executives and sponsors.
• Expert-level knowledge and understanding of Vizrt and Trio software.
• Experience with or understanding of graphics playout in a live setting.
• Good understanding of 3D graphics, modelling and animation concepts, with experience in Cinema4D, Maya, Unreal Engine or other 3D animation programs.
• Strong interest and knowledge of sports and sports culture.
• Reliable transportation to work.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent.

• Preferred office location is Charlotte, NC; the individual may also be based in the Bristol, CT office.

• Charlotte, NC: $101,600.00 to $136,100.00 per year.
• Bristol, CT: $104,000 to $143,000 per year.
• Base pay offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills and experience among other factors.

• A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences.