Job Description – Program Head, Animation & VFX
Location: Mumbai
Experience Required: 10+ Years
Qualification: Postgraduate degree (Mandatory) in Animation, VFX, Digital Media, Multimedia, Design, Film Making, or related field
About the Role
The University is seeking an experienced and visionary Program Head – Animation & VFX to lead the academic, creative, and operational aspects of the department. The role requires a strong academic leader with industry exposure in Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Digital Content Creation, and Emerging Media Technologies.
The ideal candidate will be responsible for curriculum development, faculty leadership, industry collaborations, student outcomes, and overall growth of the program in alignment with industry trends and academic excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Leadership
- Lead and manage the Animation & VFX department across academic and administrative functions.
- Design, review, and upgrade curriculum aligned with industry standards and emerging technologies.
- Ensure effective delivery of programs in Animation, VFX, Motion Graphics, Gaming, CGI, 3D Design, and Digital Media.
- Develop innovative teaching methodologies and experiential learning practices.
- Ensure compliance with university academic policies, accreditation standards, and regulatory requirements.
Faculty Management
- Recruit, mentor, and evaluate faculty members and visiting industry experts.
- Conduct faculty development initiatives and encourage research and innovation.
- Foster a collaborative and performance-driven academic environment.
Industry Collaboration & Partnerships
- Build strong relationships with studios, production houses, gaming companies, media organizations, and creative agencies.
- Facilitate internships, live projects, industry workshops, guest lectures, and placement opportunities.
- Establish academic collaborations and MoUs with industry partners.
Student Development
- Guide students in academic progression, portfolio development, and career readiness.
- Promote participation in competitions, exhibitions, film festivals, and industry events.
- Monitor student performance, retention, and placement outcomes.
Research & Innovation
- Encourage research, innovation, and interdisciplinary projects in Animation, VFX, AI-driven media, XR/AR/VR, and emerging technologies.
- Support publication, creative projects, and intellectual property initiatives.
Operational Responsibilities
- Manage departmental budgets, infrastructure, studios, labs, and software resources.
- Ensure smooth coordination with admissions, examinations, marketing, and placement teams.
- Support student admissions through counseling sessions, presentations, and promotional activities.
Desired Candidate Profile
- 10+ years of relevant experience in Animation, VFX, Digital Media, or related industries, with prior academic leadership experience preferred.
- Strong understanding of industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, Houdini, Unreal Engine, Adobe Creative Suite, Nuke, etc.
- Proven experience in curriculum design, academic administration, and industry engagement.
- Excellent communication, leadership, mentoring, and stakeholder management skills.
- Exposure to NAAC/NBA/UGC or other accreditation processes will be an added advantage.
Preferred Skills
- Strategic academic planning
- Team leadership and faculty management
- Industry networking and collaborations
- Creative problem-solving and innovation
- Strong presentation and communication abilities
