Lead Producer

About Dambuster Studios

Originally founded in 1999 as Free Radical Design our ambition and passion comes through as strongly now as when we first began. We are always seeking individuals who can emulate our values - passion, quality, and teamwork - which are embodied in our diverse and inclusive culture.

Even if you’re not sure that you meet all the criteria for a role, don’t be put off from applying - we want to hear from you. Our only requirement is that you work from the UK, and if the role requires you on-site frequently we can discuss relocation to Nottingham (if the role requires this, it’s outlined in the advert below). Our internal Wellbeing Committee and Mental Health First Aiders help ensure that our diversity is championed in a safe environment in our city centre studio.

Lead Producer

Dambuster Studios - creators of the number one BAFTA-nominated smash hit Dead Island 2 - has an exciting opportunity for a Lead Producer to join our highly talented Production team.

Role overview

In this new position, the Lead Producer will help drive the successful development and delivery of our projects. You’ll lead multidisciplinary teams, manage complex production challenges, and ensure alignment with the studio’s strategic goals.

Acting as a vital link between Production and Design leadership, you’ll bring clarity, accountability, and momentum to our development processes—fostering a high-performing, collaborative environment. With a hands-on approach and a sharp eye for detail, you’ll champion best practices, support team growth, and ensure features are delivered to the highest quality.

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact at both the project and studio level, while mentoring others and helping shape the future of production within the team.

Please note: This role is being offered on a studio or hybrid basis, with the offered person being in the studio three days per week minimum, so you must live within a reasonable distance of our Nottingham studio. Relocation support can be offered if applicable.

What we can offer you

• Core hours 9.30am – 4pm, remaining hours worked flexibly
• Workstyle: fully studio-based or hybrid (three days per week minimum in our Nottingham studio)
• Domestic relocation support to bring you closer to us, if you currently live more than 50 miles away
• Holiday allowance that increases with service (to a maximum of 30 days plus statutory public holidays)
• Annual pay reviews
• Company pension contribution that increases with service
• Company enhanced full pay for maternity leave for the first 26 weeks (to qualifying expectant mothers)
• Clear career progression within Dambuster Studios
• Studio funded learning and development opportunities
• Modern game development environment with the latest technologies
• Vibrant, modern city centre location with good transport links
• Fully subsidised gym membership with Virgin gym (Nottingham)
• Annual Christmas party and Summer Family BBQ
• Quarterly company funded cross-team events
• Free financial advice
• Employee referral bonus scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Weekly office treats, including breakfast on Monday and pastries on Friday

Responsibilities

• Act as a key link between Production and Design leadership, driving progress across critical path features and content teams.
• Lead by example with a hands-on approach, setting a high standard for production practice.
• Plan and coordinate major project phases from concept to post-launch in collaboration with Directors, Leads and the Production Team.
• Define clear, measurable goals and proactively identify and manage risks to delivery.
• Champion production best practices while remaining adaptable to evolving project needs.
• Use data and experience to anticipate challenges and recommend timely course corrections.
• Own the delivery and communication of complex features and associated roadmaps.
• Line manage and mentor team members, supporting growth through guidance and delegation.
• Resolve complex issues using proven production techniques to keep teams focused and on track.
• Foster strong working relationships across departments and represent the studio professionally externally.
• Stay current with industry trends and competitor products.
• Support recruitment efforts within your team and across collaborating departments, particularly for senior and leadership roles.

Requirements

• Proven track record in full development cycles on multiple shipped titles, including at least one AAA game.
• 6+ years’ experience in game development, with at least 2 years in a senior production role leading cross-discipline teams on complex projects.
• Strong experience guiding content and quest development from pre-production through to completion.
• Proficient with project management tools (e.g. JIRA) and a solid grasp of established production methodologies.
• Excellent critical thinking and prioritisation skills, with a keen eye for quality and detail.
• Clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal, with strong listening and interpersonal skills.
• Calm under pressure, emotionally mature, and comfortable navigating ambiguity and complex challenges.
• Collaborative and confident working with multidisciplinary teams, with a holistic view of project needs and priorities.

Equal Opportunities Statement

Dambuster Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Anyone considering their next step in their career journey with Dambuster will receive consideration without regard to gender (including gender identity, gender expression and gender reassignment), race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, marital or civil partnership status, disability, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity or paternity, or membership in any other legally protected category. We strive to create an inclusive environment, empower employees, and embrace diversity. We encourage everyone to apply.

We operate a transparent recruitment process that removes barriers for those who require reasonable adjustments. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment or onboarding process, or if you are successful in securing a position with us, please let us know what we can do to ensure your success.