Principal Game Designer

Lead / Principal Systems Designer Location: Cambridge, UK (Hybrid – 3 Days In-Studio) Work Authorisation: UK Right to Work / UK Citizen required (No visa sponsorship available) About the Role We are partnering with a world-renowned UK studio celebrated for defining the Creative Management Simulation (CMS) genre. They are seeking a Lead / Principal Systems Designer to take ownership of core design areas and system architecture on one of their flagship simulation franchises. While titled Principal Designer within their internal matrix, this is functionally a Lead position requiring hands-on people leadership and line management. In this role, you will bridge high-level vision and tactical execution, combining complex systems design, game economy balancing, and production alignment with direct management for a dedicated team of ~6 designers. Key Responsibilities

1. People Leadership & Line Management (~60%):

• Direct Management: Provide line management for a design team of ~6 members, driving their professional growth and career progression.
• Team Dynamics & Mentorship: Actively set design benchmarks, resolve blockers, navigate team challenges, and lead difficult performance or conflict conversations with clarity.
• Cross-Discipline Alignment: Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, and Art to build mutual understanding, manage project risks, and ensure effective feature prioritization.

2. Game Systems Architecture & Mechanics (~40%):

• System Design & Balancing: Take ownership of complex game systems, mathematical models, economy loops, progression trees, and underlying simulation AI mechanics.
• Driving Quality: Champion feature quality through regular playtests, player telemetry, QA reporting, and structured feedback loops.
• Vision & Documentation: Work alongside the Game Director and Design Director to maintain pristine design documentation and translate creative vision into scalable, engaging gameplay. What We Are Looking For
• Proven Line Management Experience: Demonstrable track record of directly managing, mentoring, and leading game designers within a commercial studio setting.
• Systems Design Expertise: Strong technical grounding in game systems, economy loops, balancing, and mechanics design (PC / Console focused).
• Conflict & Risk Management: Proven ability to navigate project risks, clear development blockers, and steer challenging team dynamics.
• Genre Affinity: A background in or passion for Creative Management Sims (CMS), strategy, or complex sandbox titles. To Apply If you are a Lead Systems Designer or a Principal Designer with genuine line management experience looking to lead a flagship simulation project, apply directly or drop a message to discuss in complete confidence.