Technical Production Manager

Job Title
Technical Production Manager (AV & Immersive Events)

Reports to: Head of Production / Managing Director

Location: Leeds, UK

Employment Type: Full-time

Overview
The Technical Production Manager is responsible for the end-to-end technical planning, financial management, and on-site delivery of exhibition and event activations.

This role ensures the seamless integration of audio-visual, lighting, structural, and digital systems into world-class brand environments.

You'll work closely with creative, production, and operations teams — as well as a trusted network of subcontractors and suppliers — to turn concepts into technically flawless, on-brand experiences.

Key Responsibilities
Technical & Production Management

• Oversee the technical planning and delivery of exhibitions, live events, and immersive activations from concept through to de-rig.
• Translate creative ideas and visual briefs into technical reality — balancing innovation with feasibility, cost, and safety.
• Specify, procure, and manage AV, lighting, and staging systems for complex multi-zone builds.
• Coordinate all power, data, and infrastructure requirements for on-site deployment.
• Produce or review detailed technical documentation — including plans, wiring diagrams, risk assessments, and method statements.
• Ensure all installations comply with health and safety legislation, CDM regulations, and venue standards.

Financial & Commercial

• Develop and control production budgets, ensuring commercial viability and profitability.
• Work with subcontractors and suppliers to quote, negotiate, and confirm project costs.
• Raise purchase orders, manage invoicing schedules, and track spend against live budgets.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or delivery.
• Support project managers in creating clear financial forecasts and reconciliations post-event.

Subcontractor & Supplier Management

• Source, brief, and manage trusted AV, rigging, power, fabrication, and logistics partners.
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with key technical suppliers.
• Oversee subcontractor performance, ensuring consistency with brand, quality, and safety standards.
• Lead coordination between multiple vendors to deliver seamless on-site integration.

On-Site Delivery

• Act as the senior technical lead on-site — managing crews, suppliers, and logistics to deliver activations on schedule.
• Conduct technical briefings, safety checks, and live system tests prior to handover.
• Troubleshoot and resolve real-time technical issues with composure and expertise.
• Ensure all systems are decommissioned, packed, and returned efficiently post-event.

Skills & Experience

• 5+ years experience in technical production for exhibitions, live events, or brand activations.
• Proven background in audio-visual and lighting systems integration — including projection, LED, control systems, and playback tech.
• Strong understanding of temporary structures, power distribution, and network/data infrastructure.
• Solid commercial acumen — able to manage budgets, supplier relationships, and financial accountability across multiple projects.
• Competent in reading and producing AutoCAD / Vectorworks technical drawings.
• Strong knowledge of Health & Safety, CDM, and site logistics.
• Excellent communicator and team leader, comfortable managing diverse subcontractor teams.
• Calm under pressure with exceptional attention to detail.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel internationally.

Desirable

• Experience with interactive technology, LED video walls, or projection mapping.
• Familiarity with Crestron, Watchout, Disguise, or similar show-control systems.
• IPAF, PASMA, SMSTS, or equivalent site certification.
• Experience delivering projects for premium brand environments (automotive, tech, lifestyle, or defence sectors).

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and project-based bonus opportunities.
• Exposure to high-profile international exhibitions and activations.
• Creative and collaborative team culture focused on innovation and quality.
• Professional development and training in emerging AV technologies.