Job description

Job Title:

Technical Production Manager (AV & Immersive Events)

Reports to: Head of Production / Managing Director

Location: Leeds, UK

Employment Type: Full-time

Overview
The Technical Production Manager is responsible for the end-to-end technical planning, financial management, and on-site delivery of exhibition and event activations.

This role ensures the seamless integration of audio-visual, lighting, structural, and digital systems into world-class brand environments.
You'll work closely with creative, production, and operations teams - as well as a trusted network of subcontractors and suppliers - to turn concepts into technically flawless, on-brand experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Technical & Production Management

Oversee the technical planning and delivery of exhibitions, live events, and immersive activations from concept through to de-rig.
Translate creative ideas and visual briefs into technical reality - balancing innovation with feasibility, cost, and safety.
Specify, procure, and manage AV, lighting, and staging systems for complex multi-zone builds.
Coordinate all power, data, and infrastructure requirements for on-site deployment.
Produce or review detailed technical documentation - including plans, wiring diagrams, risk assessments, and method statements.
Ensure all installations comply with health and safety legislation, CDM regulations, and venue standards.

Financial & Commercial

Develop and control production budgets, ensuring commercial viability and profitability.
Work with subcontractors and suppliers to quote, negotiate, and confirm project costs.
Raise purchase orders, manage invoicing schedules, and track spend against live budgets.
Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or delivery.
Support project managers in creating clear financial forecasts and reconciliations post-event.

Subcontractor & Supplier Management

Source, brief, and manage trusted AV, rigging, power, fabrication, and logistics partners.
Build and maintain long-term relationships with key technical suppliers.
Oversee subcontractor performance, ensuring consistency with brand, quality, and safety standards.
Lead coordination between multiple vendors to deliver seamless on-site integration.

On-Site Delivery

Act as the senior technical lead on-site - managing crews, suppliers, and logistics to deliver activations on schedule.
Conduct technical briefings, safety checks, and live system tests prior to handover.
Troubleshoot and resolve real-time technical issues with composure and expertise.
Ensure all systems are decommissioned, packed, and returned efficiently post-event.

Skills & Experience

5+ years experience in technical production for exhibitions, live events, or brand activations.
Proven background in audio-visual and lighting systems integration - including projection, LED, control systems, and playback tech.
Strong understanding of temporary structures, power distribution, and network/data infrastructure.
Solid commercial acumen - able to manage budgets, supplier relationships, and financial accountability across multiple projects.
Competent in reading and producing AutoCAD / Vectorworks technical drawings.
Strong knowledge of Health & Safety, CDM, and site logistics.
Excellent communicator and team leader, comfortable managing diverse subcontractor teams.
Calm under pressure with exceptional attention to detail.
Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel internationally.

Desirable

Experience with interactive technology, LED video walls, or projection mapping.
Familiarity with Crestron, Watchout, Disguise, or similar show-control systems.
IPAF, PASMA, SMSTS, or equivalent site certification.
Experience delivering projects for premium brand environments (automotive, tech, lifestyle, or defence sectors).

What We Offer