VP Business Development

Company Overview

PlaySide Studios is Australia’s largest video game developer and publisher, having been in operation since 2011 and listing on the Australian Securities Exchange in 2020. With over 250 personnel, it has a long history of working with top-tier IP holders, technology companies, publishers and AAA studios on an end-to-end development and co-development basis as well as a growing portfolio of owned Original IP content on PC/console, mobile and virtual reality platforms.

The Company is looking to add an experienced VP of Business Development in North America to work with its Australia-based EVP of Business Development to support its growth.

Position Overview

The successful applicant will be a key member of the Leadership and Business Development team responsible for growing the Company’s volume of contract and co-development projects, as well as supporting the monetisation of its growing portfolio of Original IP titles through Publishing and licensing arrangements. This is a client-facing role with regular travel that will focus on identifying new opportunities, securing strategic partnerships and strengthening relationships with current and potential partners.

You will combine a deep understanding of the games industry and strong working relationships with proven commercial expertise acting as both a strategist and hands-on dealmaker.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities

• Strategic Growth: Actively contribute to the growth of the studio’s project pipeline and other commercial opportunities.
• Partnerships: Identify, negotiate, and manage relationships with IP owners, external studios, publishers and platform holders.
• Commercial Deals: Lead negotiations across contract work, co-development projects, and publishing agreements in accordance with the Company’s financial targets and risk management policies.
• Market Intelligence: Stay abreast of industry trends, competitor strategies and emerging opportunities to inform decision-making and strategy.
• Leadership: Collaborate with PlaySide’s Leadership team to align business development strategy with the creative, financial and operational priorities of the studio.
• Brand Representation: Represent the studio at industry events and conferences to enhance its visibility and reputation.
• Pitching Process: Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders to manage the Studio’s pitching process to ensure that we deliver professional and effective pitches to clients.

Specific Attributes, Skills, Qualifications & Experience:

• Proven experience (7+ years) in business development, publishing, or commercial leadership roles within the video games industry.
• A network of strong industry relationships and a demonstrated track record of closing high-value deals and building strategic partnerships.
• Deep knowledge of the indie, AA and AAA games landscape
• Exceptional negotiation, communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen.