Head of Sound - The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind

UK Theatre Association; City of Westminster; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading production company based in London is looking for an experienced Head of Sound for the West End transfer of a new musical. The role entails overseeing sound preparation, live mixing, and managing sound department staff. Ideal applicants will have significant sound operational experience, especially in high-pressure environments, and previous involvement in West End musicals. Competitive salary and fixed-term contract are provided, along with benefits aimed at employee wellbeing.

Benefits

Employee Assistance Programme

Wellbeing programmes

Access to physiotherapy

Qualifications

• Demonstrable professional experience working in a similar role in the West End or on Tour.
• Previous experience of working on a West End musical.
• Extensive operational Sound experience, with a focus on live mixing skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the coordination and preparation of equipment.
• Uphold high production standards.
• Live mix and operate each performance.

Skills

Technical knowledge

Calm approach to troubleshooting

Strong communication skills

Flexible attitude

Job description

Responsibilities

• To assist the Sound Designer, Production Manager and Production Sound Engineer to co-ordinate the hire and preparation of equipment and venue supplies, in tech and throughout the run of the Production;
• To uphold the high production standards set by the Sound Designer and maintain the artistic quality of the original design;
• To live mix and operate each performance of the Production;
• To take over from the Production Sound Engineer after the fit-up, taking responsibility for dealing with the system maintenance and all Sound department maintenance;
• To lead on weekly maintenance schedules and ensuring that all fixes are completed to a high standard and/or promptly reported to the hire company;
• To directly manage the Sound No. 2 and other members of the Sound department;
• To create weekly schedules for the Sound department;
• To learn all tracks in your department and perform these if necessary to cover absence;
• To teach the mix to the Sound No. 2 and other members of your department to ensure that they are able to cover you if required;
• To recruit, manage and train a pool of department deps to provide emergency cover if required;
• To provide technical support for all rehearsals, promotional/marketing events and other calls as required;
• To ensure a safe working environment is maintained at all times and that all Health and Safety procedures and practises are adhered to;
• To be a proactive member of the technical team and to work collaboratively with all other departments, including the theatre technical team, to ensure the smooth running of the Production;
• To compile and keep up-to-date all necessary show paperwork both hard copy and digital;
• To account for and support the administration of petty cash for Sound Department spends, obtaining where possible VAT invoices for any hires and purchases made through petty cash;
• To maintain the department Health and Safety record and good housekeeping procedure;
• To comply at all times with the rules and regulations in force at the venues under the control of the Production;
• To work in accordance with the Producer's Health and Safety policy, which may include any training deemed necessary;
• To ensure all sound equipment and backstage areas are kept in a tidy and secure manner;
• Any other reasonable duty that would normally fall within the remit of a Head of Sound/Sound No. 1 based on industry norms and practice, or as directed by the Sound Designer, Production Manager, Company Manager, Producers or General Managers.

Personal Attributes

We are looking for applicants with previous Head of Sound/Sound No.1 experience on a musical. The role requires someone who has excellent technical knowledge and a calm and practical approach to technical troubleshooting. Candidates must also have previous experience of managing a department and the ability to work flexibly in high pressure environments.
Candidates must have the right to live and work in the UK.

Requirements

• Demonstrable professional experience working in a similar role in the West End or on Tour;
• Previous experience of working on a West End musical;
• Extensive operational Sound experience, with particular focus on live mixing skills with a proven track record of dealing with complex radio mic shows;
• Excellent technical skills and a thorough knowledge of technical troubleshooting;
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written with excellent attention to detail;
• A proactive and flexible attitude;
• Previous experience of managing a team;
• The ability to work closely with actors and creative teams, and handle confidential information with discretion;
• The ability to work under pressure and effectively prioritise;
• Awareness of current Health & Safety legislation;
• Knowledge of SOLT BECTU agreements.

Company

Kenny Wax Ltd is one of the leading Production Companies operating in the West End and on Tour. We are looking for an experienced Head of Sound to join our team in London for the West End transfer of this new musical.

Salary & Contract

Salary: £950 per week (£900 per week during rehearsals/tech)
Contract: Fixed Term SOLT/BECTU Contract
Contract Dates: w/c 13^th April 2026 (TBC) - 18^th July 2026
Rehearsals/Get In: w/c 13^th April 2026
Tech: w/c 20^th April 2026
Performances: 25^th April - 18^th July 2026
Show schedule: Performances are 6 days per week, typically Monday - Saturday. The performance schedule shall be confirmed at point of contract.
Holiday: As per the SOLT/BECTU Agreement (32 days per full calendar year). There will be a holiday embargo across this contract and any accrued holiday shall be paid out at the end of contract.
Performance Location: @sohoplace, 4 Soho Pl, Charing Cross Rd, London W1D 3BG

Benefits

Employee Assistance Programme, Wellbeing and Resilience programmes, access to physiotherapy, local discounts.