Workshop Manager

Cavendish Professionals; Croydon; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading events production company in Croydon is seeking an experienced Workshop Manager to oversee daily workshop operations. The manager will lead a team in delivering high-quality scenic, staging, and technical builds for various events. Candidates should have a background in events or scenic fabrication, alongside strong leadership and organizational skills. This role demands effective project management and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. Familiarity with health and safety compliance is essential, as is the ability to interpret CAD drawings.

Qualifications

• Experience in a managerial role within events, exhibitions, or scenic fabrication.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and CAD documentation.
• Strong understanding of health and safety compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee workshop operations ensuring a safe and efficient environment.
• Manage and mentor a diverse team including carpenters and technicians.
• Coordinate logistics for material ordering and equipment maintenance.
• Maintain quality standards and align production with project budgets.

Skills

Leadership

Organisational skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

IT literacy

Tools

Microsoft Office

CAD

Job description

Workshop Manager

Overview

We are seeking an experienced and hands‑on Workshop Manager to lead the day-to‑day operations of a busy production workshop that delivers high‑quality scenic, staging and technical builds for events, exhibitions and live environments. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, excellent organisational skills and an ability to manage multiple fast‑paced projects from concept through to delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Workshop Leadership & Management

• Oversee all workshop operations, ensuring a safe, efficient and well‑organised working environment.
• Manage and mentor a team of carpenters, fabricators, technicians and freelance crew.
• Plan workloads, allocate resources and schedule production to meet tight project deadlines.
• Conduct toolbox talks, enforce H&S procedures and maintain compliance with workshop safety regulations.

Production & Quality Control

• Interpret technical drawings, briefs and build specifications to ensure accurate, high‑quality fabrication.
• Maintain quality standards across all scenic, staging and event builds.
• Monitor progress, troubleshoot issues and ensure production aligns with project budgets and timelines.
• Liaise with Project Managers to confirm build requirements, material choices and technical solutions.

Logistics & Coordination

• Oversee stock levels, material ordering and workshop consumables.
• Work closely with warehouse and logistics teams to coordinate load‑ins, load‑outs and transport.
• Ensure equipment is maintained, serviced and ready for deployment.

Technical Competence

• Strong understanding of scenic construction, carpentry, fabrication and finishing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret CAD drawings and technical build documentation.
• Knowledge of event production processes, rigging principles and site installation procedures beneficial.

Skills & Experience Required

• Previous experience as a Workshop Manager, Production Manager, Senior Carpenter or similar role within events, exhibitions, theatre, or scenic fabrication.
• Proven experience leading workshop teams in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong problem‑solving ability with a practical, hands‑on approach.
• Excellent communication and people management skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Good IT literacy (Microsoft Office; CAD or project software beneficial).
• Strong understanding of H&S and workshop compliance requirements.