Production Manager (Installations)
Location: Denton, Manchester
Type: Full Time
Reports to: Head of Event Delivery / Operations Director
Role Overview
The Installation Manager at Visual Architects is responsible for the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of all installation activity across events, festivals, immersive experiences, and brand activations.
This role is accountable for translating creative concepts into safe, efficient, and high‑quality on‑site delivery, ensuring projects are completed on time, on budget, and to the highest operational standards.
The Installation Manager leads the Installation Department and acts as the operational bridge between Sales, Design, Warehouse, Logistics, Production, and On‑Site Teams. The role requires strong leadership, advanced logistical planning, people management capability, and extensive experience managing complex event installations within fast‑paced environments.
The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining Visual Architects’ delivery standards, operational efficiency, and reputation across all projects.
Key Responsibilities
Department Leadership and Operational Management
- Lead and manage the Installation Department across all live projects and operational activity.
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve installation processes and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Ensure installation operations remain scalable, efficient, and commercially viable as the business grows.
- Oversee departmental resource planning, labour allocation, and scheduling across concurrent projects.
- Manage installation budgets, labour spend, vehicle allocation, and operational costs effectively.
- Support profitability through efficient planning, resource management, and reduction of unnecessary damages or losses.
Planning & Logistics
- Create and manage detailed installation schedules, deployment plans, and project timelines.
- Coordinate manpower allocation, freelance crew bookings, vehicle planning, accommodation requirements, and logistics scheduling.
- Ensure all installation requirements are communicated clearly to Team Leaders, Coordinators, Warehouse Teams, and freelancers.
- Oversee all job logistics from warehouse preparation through to on‑site execution and return.
- Ensure all required tools, access equipment, PPE, and specialist equipment are allocated correctly for each project.
Team Leadership and Development
- Recruit, manage, mentor, and develop Installation Coordinators, Team Leaders, Riggers, and freelance crews.
- Lead by example in professionalism, accountability, safety, and work standards.
- Conduct regular training sessions and development days focused on installation techniques, safety standards, equipment handling, and operational best practice.
- Ensure all crews are fully briefed, uniformed, equipped, and operationally prepared before deployment.
- Manage staff performance, conduct, and accountability within the department.
Health & Safety & Compliance
- Take full ownership of Health & Safety compliance across all installation activity.
- Prepare and manage Risk Assessments, Method Statements, lifting plans, and all required H&S documentation.
- Ensure compliance with venue regulations, working at height requirements, fire safety standards, and operational legislation.
- Maintain records relating to PAT testing, safety certifications, training records, and compliance documentation.
- Conduct regular safety checks, toolbox talks, and on‑site compliance inspections.
Communication & Reporting
- Manage installation communication channels, including operational WhatsApp groups and internal coordination updates.
- Maintain accurate installation records, damage reports, job logs, and operational documentation.
- Ensure all project updates, operational issues, and installation feedback are communicated clearly across departments.
- Report operational challenges, staffing concerns, and resource requirements to senior management.
Site Visits
- Attend site visits alongside Account Managers and Project Managers to assess logistics, access requirements, rigging feasibility, and installation planning.
- Conduct venue scanning, measurements, photography, and documentation where required.
- Maintain organised venue documentation and upload all relevant files to Google Drive and company systems.
- Lead post‑event reviews and identify opportunities for operational improvement, efficiency gains, and service enhancement.
Requirements
- Proven experience within event installations, live events, experiential activations, exhibitions, or production environments.
- Strong leadership and people management experience.
- Excellent logistical planning and operational coordination skills.
- Strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation and safe working practices.
- Experience managing freelance crews, transport logistics, and large‑scale installations.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Full UK driving licence preferred.
- Full‑time, office‑based role in Denton, Manchester.
- Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:30.
- 28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays.
- Additional annual leave entitlement awarded for each year of service from year two onwards.
- Free onsite parking.
To apply for the Installation Manager position at Visual Architects, please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience to:
jobs@visual-architects.co.uk
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