Deputy Head of Stage

Factory International; Manchester; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Factory International is seeking a Deputy Head of Stage to lead the technical delivery of world-class productions, exhibitions, concerts and events in Manchester. You will partner with the Head of Stage to manage stage operations, venue changeovers, and technical installations, directing staff and freelance crews to maintain safety, efficiency and artistic excellence.

You will deputise for the Head of Stage, oversee staffing levels, rosters and resource planning, and collaborate with artists,

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in event staging and operations across live arts.
• Proven ability to lead and deliver large productions and installations.
• Strong knowledge of technical stage management and venue operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead stage operations, venue changeovers, and staffing for projects.
• Deputise for Head of Stage during periods of absence.
• Plan staffing levels, rota management and resource planning across projects.
• Coordinate get-ins, rehearsals, and show runs with teams and visiting productions.
• Ensure health and safety compliance and safe systems of work.

Skills

Stage operations

Staffing planning

Health & Safety

Leadership

Budget management

Education

Technical theatre qualification

UK Driving Licence

Tools

AutoCAD

Vectorworks

Job description

Closing date - 12 October 2026
Salary - £35,015 per annum

Please feel free to contact us at [e-mail] if you require any support in completing your application.

Deputy Head of Stage Job Pack - download here

The Deputy Head of Stage supports the delivery of world-class productions, exhibitions, concerts and events across Factory International. Working closely with the Head of Stage, you will lead stage operations, venue changeovers, technical installations and staffing resources, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency and artistic excellence. You will provide day-to-day leadership to technical teams, collaborate with artists and visiting companies, and play a key role in the successful delivery of diverse and ambitious projects.

Deputy Head of Stage Responsibiliites

• Support the Head of Department in the deployment and operation of all aspects of Factory International's technical stage equipment within the Scenic & Gallery Installations team, with particular emphasis on stage operations, show running and venue changeovers.
• Responsibility for deputising for the Head of Stage during periods of absence.
• Support the Head of Department with staffing levels, rota management and resource planning, ensuring appropriate staffing levels are maintained across all projects and activities.
• Support Exhibition Installation team members as required to ensure exhibitions, installations and productions are delivered to the highest artistic, technical and operational standards.
• Participate in the planning, organisation and supervision of get-ins, fit-ups, technical rehearsals, performances, show runs and get-outs. Ensure appropriate staffing and equipment resources are allocated and utilised in accordance with current Health & Safety legislation and environmental best practice.
• Lead discipline-specific team members in the creation and delivery of artworks, exhibitions, concerts, performances and events. Plan and supervise venue format changeovers, including stage installations, de-rigs, seating reconfigurations and exhibition installations.
• Coordinate truck and vehicle movements on site and operate the venue truck lift system in accordance with established procedures and safety requirements.
• Attend production meetings, rehearsals and technical rehearsals as required. Liaise with visiting productions, artists, technical teams and contractors to ensure their requirements are met and that all activities are compliant with Factory International policies and procedures.
• Work collaboratively with Production Management, Technical Departments, Building Operations and Artistic teams to ensure seamless delivery of all projects and events.
• Support the development of production-related income streams and contribute to maximising commercial opportunities for the organisation.
• Cover the position of Technical Duty Manager on a rota basis and oversee other technical departments in the absence of the relevant manager.
• Support the Rigging Department and other technical departments as operational requirements dictate.
• Assist in the planning and delivery of departmental budgets, resource allocation and equipment procurement, ensuring value for money and operational effectiveness.
• Coordinate and supervise external contractors, suppliers and specialist technicians, ensuring compliance with Factory International standards and safety procedures.
• In conjunction with other technical team members, plan and deliver an effective programme of maintenance, including Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), housekeeping, stock control, inspection and testing of equipment and venue infrastructure.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of departmental systems, procedures and working practices to enhance efficiency, safety and service delivery.
• In conjunction with the Head of Department, Technical Manager and Director of Production & Building Operations, support the recruitment, training, development and succession planning of technical staff.
• Promote positive working practices within the department and provide effective leadership, supervision and mentoring to permanent, freelance and casual staff.
• Act as a key point of contact during operational incidents and emergency situations, ensuring procedures are followed and appropriate actions are taken.
• Champion sustainable working practices and support Factory International's environmental commitments through efficient use of resources, waste reduction and responsible working methods.

Deputy Head of Stage Person Specification

ESSENTIAL

• Extensive practical knowledge and proven experience of event staging and operations within one or more art forms (live music, theatre, exhibitions, performance art or related disciplines), preferably within a producing or receiving venue.
• Demonstrable experience of leading and delivering large-scale productions, exhibitions, events or installations.
• Working knowledge of technical stage management, rigging practices and venue operations.
• Proven experience of supervising and developing staff, with strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships at all levels.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, solve problems effectively and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience of receiving and/or delivering large-scale national and international touring productions.
• Experience of workforce planning, scheduling and rota management.
• Experience working with artists, visiting companies, contractors and multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of technical drawing software including AutoCAD, Vectorworks or equivalent.
• Knowledge of the principles relating to the safe deployment and use of electrical systems within an entertainment environment.
• Strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation, risk assessment processes and safe systems of work.
• Comfortable working at height and within complex technical environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant resource and scheduling systems.
• Commitment to championing representation and inclusion at every level of the organisation with a proven ability to work with people from a wide range of backgrounds

DESIRABLE

• Practical knowledge of LOLER, PUWER and other relevant Health & Safety regulations applicable to performance venues and exhibition environments.
• IPAF, MEWP and PASMA certification.
• Experience managing gallery installations, exhibitions, public art projects or artist commissions.
• Good understanding of statutory regulations governing venues, including the Working Time Regulations.
• Experience using Artifax Event, Vectorworks, AutoCAD or similar venue management and planning software.
• Awareness of current and emerging trends in venue technologies, automation systems and event production practices.
• Experience touring nationally and/or internationally.
• Experience acting as Technical Duty Manager, Event Manager or equivalent operational leadership role.
• Experience of budget management, project planning and resource allocation.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Technical theatre qualification from an accredited college, university, ABTT or equivalent industry-recognised training.
• Vocational qualifications such as IRATA, PASMA, IPAF, CITB or equivalent.
• Current First Aid at Work qualification.
• Understanding of ABTT Technical Standards for Places of Entertainment.
• Enthusiasm for training, mentoring and support of emerging talent