Sr Production Operations Manager

The Sr Production Operations Manager is responsible for championing the standardization of production workflows to improve efficiency and optimize processes across LAIKA’s production pipeline. This role will partner with creative contributors throughout design, fabrication, production, and technology teams to analyze existing processes and determine strategic opportunities for workflow enhancement that align with studio operational goals.

• Identify and codify standard workflows and communication channels with the central production team and production managers within Art, Puppets, RP, Lighting & Camera, Rigging, Animation, and VFX to unify departments and streamline handoffs for key deliverables.
• Manage communications for production-related ShotGrid updates and prioritization of technology and pipeline initiatives.
• Develop best practices with production managers for creative processes across departments including, but not limited to, artist launches/reviews by the Production Designer, Director of Photography, and VFX Supervisor.
• Partner with production managers to analyze artist productivity, identify redundancies and inefficiencies, and determine pathways to reduce build timelines and costs, including mid and post-mortems.
• Drive identification and documentation of high-value interim projects between features with department production managers, and take lead on establishing milestones and expectations for project-based R&D initiatives and related expenses.
• Spearhead coverage and contingency planning for project-based leadership roles and special production projects, and present scenario plans for workspace and facility utilization.
• Serve as key point of contact for administrative services, facilities, communications, accessibility, safety, and sustainability teams on messaging studio developments and best practices for all crew members.
• Collaborate with VP Production Operations on initiatives to improve studio practices and processes.

• 10+ years’ experience in a production management role in feature films; stop motion production and/or fabrication experience preferred.
• 5+ years' experience managing artists, and capable of motivating and leading teams with enthusiasm.
• Ability to plan, schedule, and monitor R&D and build progress across multiple, interdependent departments.
• Ability to work both collaboratively and independently with strong attention to detail and communication skills.
• Must be adaptable and capable of re-prioritizing according to evolving business goals, while fostering positive working relationships within a production-driven environment.
• Extensive experience with asset management database software, preferably ShotGrid.
• Proven project management experience with MS Project and Excel or similar packages.
• Base-level knowledge of Photoshop a plus.
• Clear planning, problem solving, and analytic skills with an organized and methodical approach to work.

On-site in Hillsboro, OR

Salary is commensurate with skills and experience.

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk; stand; sit; use hands to operate standard office equipment; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; talk or hear both in person and by telephone. The employee must lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee works under typical office conditions and is exposed to variable indoor temperatures. The noise level is usually quiet or moderate.