Assistant Production Manager Lyric Theatre Belfast

Purpose of the Post

This role is being offered in partnership with the Mackintosh Foundation Regional Technical Apprenticeship Programme and its purpose is to support and train the next generation of technical theatre professionals. The Assistant Production Manager will learn and gain practical experience working under the supervision of the Lyric Theatre’s Production and Technical Management teams.

During the apprenticeship, the individual will be responsible for assisting the Production Management team in various tasks, such as coordinating with creative teams, managing schedules, budgets and resources, and overseeing the logistics of the production process. They will also learn to liaise with other departments working within the organisation, and how to manage relationships with external stakeholders such as suppliers and vendors.

The post-holder will have the opportunity to lead on the production management of our creative learning programme, under the supervision of a more experienced production manager. Over the course of the apprenticeship, they will have the opportunity to meet with other apprentices, to avail of structured training, and attend industry events. This includes mandatory in-person training/networking opportunities through Mackintosh Foundation which would require the individual to attend sessions in London.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Productions

To assist the Production Management team with the planning and delivery of the theatre’s in-house production programme;
To provide production management support for the Creative Learning programme under the supervision of the Production Manager and Head of Production;
To liaise with directors, designers, and other members of production teams to ensure that key deadlines are met and help ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget;
To ensure that all departments are kept informed of the requirements of the artistic team;
To compile and distribute schedules, plans, and other necessary information as directed by the Production Management team;
To work with the Scenic Construction team to plan and schedule the scenic build at the Lyric Scenic Workshop;
To attend the fit-up, technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and first performance as required, ensuring that all technical notes arising from them are passed on and acted upon.

Health & Safety

To undertake assigned training within the organisations Health and Safety training portal;
To comply with all relevant legislation including the promotion of a health and safety culture within the production team;
To be active in the continued development and delivery of a safe and healthy workplace including the development of safe and efficient systems of working;
To keep abreast of current developments in health and safety;
To remain current with industry best practices;
To comply with all relevant legislation and to champion the promotion of a health and safety culture within the organisation.

Other

To always observe the strictest confidentiality;
To comply with the theatre’s policies and practices on health and safety, and equal opportunities;
To attend staff meetings and department meetings as required;
To work for the benefit of the whole organisation;
Any other duties that may reasonably be required.

This list is for guidance only and is not exhaustive. The post holder will also be required to carry out other reasonable duties as required by the line manager.

Personnel Specification

Essential Criteria

Have a degree/diploma in technical theatre or relevant area OR be able to demonstrate a minimum of 3 years relevant experience in production and/or technical theatre;
Literacy and numeracy to an appropriate level – equivalent to GCSE C grade or above in English and Maths. Aged 18 or above by the time employment begins;
Computer literate, fluent in the use of Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook applications.

Desirable Criteria

CAD drafting skills (AutoCAD, VectorWorks);
Knowledge of sustainability in theatre production e.g., Theatre Green Book;
First-aid training;
Full clean driving licence.

Personal Qualities

Successful applicants will be able to demonstrate the following qualities:

Self-motivated, flexible, and able to work effectively under pressure;
A willingness to learn and take direction;
The ability to multitask, work calmly under pressure, and meet tight deadlines consistently;
The ability to prioritise and cope with last minute changes;
The ability to work well within a small, dedicated production team;
The ability to work with and support all other departments;
The ability to prioritise and plan their time effectively;
Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
Strong interpersonal skills. The ability to manage and sustain working relationships with multiple stakeholders;
An enthusiastic and flexible approach to work;
An interest in and enthusiasm for theatre.