We are looking for an exceptional communicator to join our fabulous team in the role of Head of Production.

As an integral part of the management team, the Head of Production will provide exemplary leadership to the department's staff to ensure the planning, development and operational efficiency of our Made In Northampton productions. They must be passionate about produced work and have the ability to multitask and work under pressure.

Job Purpose

To be responsible for achieving and maintaining a high standard of operational efficiency in Royal & Derngate's Production department including the operation of all its functions, the planning and development of the department's capability to respond to Royal & Derngate's production and Creative Projects needs, the cost-effective control of budgets, providing exemplary leadership to the department's staff and ensure Royal & Derngate's productions are renowned for their consistently high production values.

Key Task Areas

As a key liaison, provide a welcoming and positive environment for Directors of R&D productions and Creative and Technical teams.Liaison with designers to ensure the cost-effective planning and delivery of the creative, design, and practical requirements of R&D productions.Translation of design drawings into physical reality.Planning and budgetary control for R&D productions and R&D Production Staff.Inform the relevant personnel of the needs of R&D productions to ensure the effective deployment of staff and technical resources.To oversee Get-Ins, Fit-Ups, and Get-Outs of R&D productions and take an active part in them as demands require.Implementation of all relevant health & safety requirements and policies, and ensuring completed CDM and risk assessments are carried out for individual shows and production departments, to an appropriate level.To oversee production-making schedules, all aspects of fit-ups, technical rehearsals and production runs, ensuring they happen within budget and on schedule.To liaise with the Creative Engagement Department to provide support and ensure its production needs are met.Liaise with relevant personnel of all Co-Producers; working with the theatre to ensure that agreed timetables, budgets, and quality commitments are met.

For a full job description, please see our website.

Benefits

Complimentary tickets available on selected shows throughout the year10% discount at our bars and theatre shopEmployee Assistance Programme - Health AssuredContributory staff pension - 5% employee and 3% employer

Essential Skills

Experience

Proven translation of design requirements in a similar environmentProven experience in budgetary control in a similar environmentOperation of and adherence to financial systems in a similar environmentProven experience of production schedulingEffective management of staffMinimum five years of stage management, technical, or production work in a professional theatreHead of DepartmentExperience working in producing theatre company, and/or Repertory theatre systemKnowledge/Qualifications

Understanding of, and commitment to live performanceDesign techniques and interpretation, including working drawings, ground plans, hanging plots, etc.Rigging & flying systems & practicesLighting systems & practicesSound systems & practicesWorkshop department and construction techniquesScenic art departmentWardrobe departmentStage management departmentUse of materialTechnical stage operationHealth & Safety and Risk AssessmentEmployment mattersExternal touringSkills/Abilities

Ability to manage & lead staff at all levels with tact, fairness, diplomacy, firmness, and inspirationAbility to work as part of a teamExcellent interpersonal skillsInitiative to work alone with minimum supervisionEfficient time management with the ability to work to strict deadlinesExcellent ITC skills (Word, Excel, Microsoft, Outlook)Technical drawingStaff deployment, administration, and developmentTo find compromise amidst conflict

Desirable Skills

Experience

Working in a receiving venueWorking for a touring companyProduction management in a similar environmentKnowledge/Qualifications

Education to at least A Level standardFull membership of ABTT and/or SMAFirst Aid at Work certificateHealth & Safety Management (IOSH or NEBOSH)Skills/Abilities

IT literate in CADClean driving licenceClosing Date: Monday 8th January 2024

Interviews: WC- 15th & 22nd January 2024

How To Apply

Please submit a covering letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) stating your relevant experience, knowledge, and skills for this Head of Department role, along with your CV.

For further information about Royal & Derngate and the role, please see our website.

About Company

Royal & Derngate Northampton is the main venue for arts and entertainment in Northamptonshire and one of the major regional producing theatres in the country, with its acclaimed Made in Northampton work touring nationally and internationally.