Production Director (Bespoke build & Project Management)
1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Direct message the job poster from Visual Architects
About Us
Visual Architects is a leading creator of immersive environments, bespoke scenic builds and large scale installations for events, festivals, nightlife, retail and experiential brands. Our in‑house design, technical and fabrication teams work together to transform spaces into unforgettable visual worlds — from themed rooms and festival stages to complex décor, props, scenic sets and full‑scale immersive experiences.
We are entering an exciting new chapter. The company is on a strategic path of growth that will see Visual Architects evolve into three specialist companies by 2027. We are laying the foundations for this transformation now, strengthening our production capabilities and building the systems, standards and structures for the future.
This is a rare opportunity to join at a defining moment in our journey.
The Role
The Production Director will lead our entire production and fabrication operation. You will take projects from Sales and turn them into fully planned, build‑ready projects, overseeing Project Managers, technical drafting, fabrication teams, materials control and the workshop floor, ensuring that every build is delivered on time, within budget and to exceptional quality standards.
This is a senior leadership role for someone who excels in planning, solving technical challenges and driving a high‑performance workshop.
Key Responsibilities
Job Intake & Planning
* Review new jobs from Sales and assess feasibility, scope, budgets and timelines
* Approve jobs into production and create the master production schedule
* Break projects into workshop tasks and determine build order & priority
* Lead and develop Project Managers, Technical Draftspeople, Fabrication Manager and Materials Controller
* Ensure PMs produce accurate drawings, technical notes and complete job documentation
* Manage workload distribution and resource planning across the entire production department
Workshop & Fabrication Oversight
* Oversee all workshop output: carpentry, scenic, CNC, foam, machining and finishing
* Approve build methods, troubleshoot construction challenges and guide fabrication teams
* Maintain high standards of craftsmanship and workshop safety
* Ensure the workshop is efficient, organised and equipped to deliver at scale
Technical Direction
* Review and approve all technical drawings, CNC files and cutting lists
* Ensure technical solutions align with design intent and fabrication efficiency
Cross‑Department Coordination
* Work closely with Operations to ensure builds are completed on time for installation
* Provide installation teams with correct drawings, handling instructions and build notes
* Maintain strong communication with Design, Warehouse and Sales
Budget & Cost Control
* Own the production budget including labour, materials and tooling
* Approve material orders and track actual vs estimated spend
* Identify efficiencies and reduce overspend through improved planning, methods and workflow
About You
You are an experienced production leader with in‑depth understanding of scenic build, fabrication, workshop management and project planning. You thrive in a fast‑paced creative environment where precision, organisation and problem solving are key.
You will have:
* Senior experience in scenic fabrication, event build, theatre construction or themed environments
* Proven leadership managing workshop teams and Project Managers
* Ability to read, interpret and approve technical drawings and construction methods
* Exceptional organisational and scheduling skills
* A calm, proactive and solutions‑oriented approach
* High attention to detail and a commitment to quality
* The ambition to help build a department that will become one of the core companies in the future demerger
* You will shape the production systems and standards for our 2027 multi‑company evolution
* You will lead high‑impact, large‑scale creative builds
* You will be part of a company undergoing a major growth transformation
* Clear opportunity to influence structure, efficiency, innovation and future leadership
We look forward to hearing about your professional background and the contributions you can bring to VA.
You can click the apply button below or send a CV to jobs@visual-architects.co.uk.
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Full‑time
Location: Oldham, England, United Kingdom
#J-18808-Ljbffr