Production Manager (Live Theater)

Dr. Phillips Center For The Performing Arts - Orlando, FL

Full-time - Mid Level

Orlando, FL

Performing Arts, Spectator Sports, and Related Industries

About the position

The Manager, Production at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Production Department to ensure exceptional production quality and customer service for all events. This role involves managing day-to-day operations, collaborating with various teams including union crews, production assistants, and vendors, and making critical decisions regarding technical matters, safety, and financial interests. The Manager will work closely with the Director of Production to execute all logistical details for events, track budgets, and communicate technical needs effectively to support staff. In addition to managing logistics, the Manager will perform production and stage manager roles for shows, assist in setting up dressing rooms and rehearsal spaces, and ensure compliance with financial and budgetary requirements. This includes managing purchase orders, rental equipment, and responding to finance requests. The Manager will also be responsible for scheduling union and non-union crews, adhering to union contract rules, and maintaining a safe work environment by following OSHA regulations. The role requires strong leadership skills, as the Manager will be accountable for recruiting, training, and evaluating team performance. Building a collaborative work environment and maintaining professional relationships with colleagues and partners is essential. The Manager must also demonstrate the core values of the arts center and maintain high standards of customer service while effectively communicating with both internal and external customers.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Production Department.
• Collaborate with the Director of Production on business operations.
• Make decisions regarding technical matters, emergencies, and safety.
• Exercise discretion and independent judgment in advancing performances.
• Identify technical needs and create crew schedules for events.
• Track budgets and manage logistical details for events.
• Communicate client's technical needs to support staff.
• Organize and execute all aspects of assigned events, including purchasing and scheduling.
• Perform production and stage manager roles for shows and events.
• Assist in setting up dressing rooms and rehearsal spaces.
• Follow financial and budgetary requirements for events.
• Ensure equipment rentals are cost-effective and of high quality.
• Prepare and distribute all necessary correspondence and information sheets.
• Schedule union and non-union stage crews according to show needs and budgets.
• Assist in completing union stagehand payroll.
• Participate in required meetings and trainings.
• Build an effective and collaborative work environment.
• Accountable for administrative responsibilities including recruiting and payroll.
• Ensure compliance with policies and local, state, and federal laws.
• Maintain a safe work environment by following safety procedures.
• Support operational policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate core values of the arts center.
• Maintain professional relationships with other departments and partners.

Requirements

• Minimum of 3 years of live theater stage management experience.
• Bachelor's degree in General/Theater Production preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of production areas in theater and concert industry.
• Practical knowledge of event management and scheduling software.
• Ability to manage a wide range of events in various venue sizes.
• At least 2 years of management/supervisory experience.
• Ability to exercise creativity and good judgment under pressure.
• Effective communication skills in English, both written and oral.
• Skilled in Windows-based programs including Word, Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with timekeeping or scheduling software.
• Ability to work effectively with high levels of patience and diplomacy.