Production Manager, Performing Arts
The production manager, performing arts is responsible for the planning, management, crewing, supervision and budgeting of all technical and production elements of performing arts productions, Banff Centre programs, presentations and related activities across Banff Centre.
The production manager, performing arts, employs a working knowledge of the following: techniques; methods and procedures of theatre; dance/music productions and presentations including stage, set, sound, projection, lighting design and implementation; stage management; computerized control systems; stage carpentry and rigging; and appropriate safety procedures to analyze and evaluate the need for technical support for programs, events and performances.
Roles and Responsibilities
Reporting to the managing director, events, production, marketing and communications, below are some key accountabilities:
Scheduling and Administration
- Manages the day-to-day scheduling/booking of technical and production teams, and production activities; prepares and oversees schedule for venue activities and supervises the successful and timely load in and out of productions and presentations.
- Develops production schedule detailing all rehearsals, materials acquisition, set build, tech, strike and all other related production tasks; reconciling and reporting resources used.Initiates regular project/program production meetings with appropriate staff and project teams; and monitors project progress so that activity stays on budget and on time.
- Sources and hires external crew to support programming needs and oversees the work of outside contractors, shops and suppliers.
Technical and Production:
- Assumes responsibility for performing arts productions by ensuring all technical and production elements on assigned projects are delivered on schedule and on budget.
- Advises on the technical and production specifications, costs and usage of equipment and labour required for the programs, events and shows. Assists and advises Programming and Presentation departments in the choice and/or feasibility of programs, projects and residencies; advises on the technical specifications, costs and usage of technical equipment, and ensures the implementations of approved technical designs for each show.
- Works with all departments, clients, teams, and faculty in facilitating, managing and organizing production requirements by conducting technical assessments, analyzing technical riders, preparing production costings, supporting adjudications, and identifying crew resource and venue/space requirements.
- Ensures that production projects and technical riders are properly analyzed, costed, scheduled, implemented and managed.
- Oversees production and technical elements are implemented, including build, paint, props, maintenance and strike; ensures smooth operation of the technical aspects of all productions.
- Maintains inventory and ordering of specialized purchases, leases, rent and/or borrows equipment as needed, within approved budget.
- Monitors the condition of equipment including lighting, sound, projections, staging, wardrobe, scenic, properties and rigging equipment. Arranges for the repair and replacement within budget.
- Ensures proper set up, maintenance and operation of lighting and sound systems for theatre, dance, music, programming and presentations.
- Ensures the successful and timely load in and out of productions and presentations.
- Maintains current knowledge of all equipment and ensures supervised training on all equipment.
Practicum Program
Plans, develops and manages the practicum programs so that training is in alignment with Banff Centre objectives. Ensures timely recruitment of practicums and mentors and oversees that the participant’s training objectives are met.Financial Responsibilities:
- Contributes to the preparation of the program production operating plans and budgets.
- Tracks project expenses within program budget and provides details for program reconciliation.
- Develops capital requirements and capital purchase plan of equipment and systems for the performing arts venues and provides an annual technical inventory of all equipment with recommendations for replacement or refurbishment.
- Manages administration tasks undertaken by staff including but not limited to, contracts, billings, collections and tracking, purchase orders and rentals; Prepares and processes/approves billing, purchase orders, cheque requisitions, petty cash vouchers, reimbursement and expense claims as required.
- Prepares and manages technical and production budgets; and with direction from managing director, develops annual production operating plans and budgets, provides regular financial tracking and forecasting reports, monitors and controls production and operational budgets ensuring a balanced budget, tracking expenses within budgets and providing details for budget reconciliation.
Qualifications and Educational Requirements:
- Completion of university degree in related discipline, or related experience.
- Minimum of five years professional experience supervising in a unionized stage environment.
- Minimum of 10 years professional experience as a production manager or technical director.
- Exceptional communication, supervisory and technical skills.
- Strong organizational and budgeting skills, including balancing multiple responsibilities and effectively meeting deadlines.
- Experience developing managing both annual and program/project production budgets thorough knowledge of lighting, sound and video.
- Working knowledge of current safety standards.
- Product, material, pricing, and logistics research skills.
- Experience fulfilling technical and touring riders and/or touring of productions.
- Experience with a variety of types of live performance including theatre, dance and music.
- Ability to read technical drawings and schematics.
- Proficiency and practical experience using Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong personnel, scheduling and budgetary management skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work on multiple projects with tight deadlines and a positive attitude while working under pressure.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
Employment Terms and Benefits
In accordance with the terms of employment governing Management/PSP employees, this is a salaried, full-time position, subject to a 6-month probationary period.
The successful candidate will enjoy 20 paid vacation days and four personal days annually, extended medical and dental benefits, and participation in an employer-matched pension plan.
Benefits of working at Banff Centre are:
- Transitional staff housing options (based on availability)
- Professional development
- Staff cafeteria and restaurant discounts
- Onsite fitness facility at a discounted rate – first month free for new staff!
Application Process
For full position details and to apply, visit banffcentre.ca.
We are accepting applications for the production manager, performing arts position until a suitable candidate is found.
Candidates offered a position with Banff Centre, in this capacity, will be required to obtain a criminal record check verifying a clear record before a final job offer can be finalized.
Visa Requirements: Candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada. Banff Centre is unable to assist candidates in obtaining Canadian work authorization.
