Game Director

About KIMARU Talent: KIMARU Talent is a boutique executive search firm working with startups and growth-stage companies in AI, gaming, technology, and advertising. We take on fewer clients so we can go deeper on each search — real understanding of the role, the team, and what "yes" looks like for both sides. We're not generalists who'll take any search. We focus on leadership and critical individual-contributor hires — the roles where getting it right changes the trajectory of the startup. That depth is why most long-term clients give us access to their ATS, Slack, and internal comms. We're not a vendor you check in with weekly. We operate like an internal recruiter with an external network. ROLE SUMMARY: We’re looking for a visionary Game Director with a deep understanding of mobile game design. This is a great opportunity to step into a leadership role where your creative direction, design instincts, and team leadership will shape a game already gaining traction in the market. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Define and drive the game vision in partnership with studio leadership, ensuring alignment across design, art, engineering, and production. • Lead and mentor a cross-functional team of designers and developers. • Guide the evolution of game systems, mechanics, and content based on user data, player feedback, and market trends. • Own the overall game economy, retention systems, and progression loops to ensure long-term engagement. • Set creative priorities and make high-level product decisions that balance innovation, fun, and business outcomes. • Collaborate with product, marketing, and UA teams to support live operations and player growth. WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR: • 8+ years of experience in game development, with a focus on mobile free-to-play. • Proven track record in a Game Director, Creative Director, or Lead Designer role on successful mobile games. • Strong grasp of game economy design, monetization strategies, and player lifecycle management. • Data-informed mindset: ability to interpret analytics and translate insights into design decisions. • Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with a passion for mentoring creative teams. • Experience with live ops, content pipelines, and feature roadmapping.