Job Title: Head of Technical
Location: Blackpool Winter Gardens
Salary: £52,000 pa
Contract Type: Full Time
The Head of Technical is responsible for the management, delivery, and development of all technical aspects of visiting productions, conferences, and events at the Winter Gardens. You will lead a multidisciplinary technical team, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality technical services that meet the standards and commercial ambitions of the venue.
Working closely with visiting companies, clients and the in-house team, you will ensure technical excellence across lighting, sound, staging, AV, and conference support, while maintaining the highest standards of health and safety compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
Technical Leadership
* Lead, manage and motivate the technical team (including permanent staff, casual crew, and contractors).
* Oversee the planning, preparation, and delivery of all technical aspects for visiting theatre productions,, conferences, and events.
* Work collaboratively with creative teams, production managers, clients and promoters to ensure the successful realisation of events.
Operational Management
* Schedule and manage technical staff rotas in line with operational needs and budget constraints.
* Ensure timely maintenance, servicing, and upgrading of all technical equipment and infrastructure.
* Manage technical budgets, procurement, and inventory control.
Health & Safety
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of health and safety legislation, industry best practice, and venue-specific policies.
* Ensure full compliance with all H&S regulations, risk assessments, and safe working practices.
* Act as the venue’s Competent Person for technical health and safety matters.
Client & Stakeholder Liaison
* Act as primary technical contact for visiting companies, clients, and event organisers.
* Provide technical advice and support during the planning and delivery stages of events.
* Ensure excellent client experience through proactive, solution-focused technical support.
Strategic Development
* Advise senior management on technical infrastructure investment and long-term development.
* Keep abreast of emerging technologies and trends within theatre, live events, and conference production.
* Contribute to the venue’s sustainability objectives through efficient technical operations.
Qualifications:
Essential
* Substantial experience in a senior technical role within theatre, live events, or conferences.
* Strong knowledge across multiple disciplines: lighting, sound, AV, staging, rigging.
* Proven leadership and team management skills.
* Extensive knowledge of health and safety legislation and compliance
* Excellent organisational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
* Strong client-facing skills and the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
* Financial awareness and experience managing technical budgets.
Desirable
* Relevant technical qualifications
* IOSH or NEBOSH certification.
* Experience working with both artistic and commercial clients.
* Experience delivering hybrid conference events.
* Knowledge of sustainable practices within technical operations.