Production Manager
The Fox Theatre is seeking an experienced and dynamic Production Manager to assist in management of all aspects of production related needs for events in the theatre, ensuring a safe and enjoyable guest experience for all internal and external guests. This includes but is not limited to assisting in managing communication and needs of artists, promoters, and clients; maintenance of the stage, production operations and house equipment; assigned capital project investments and oversight, and management of the union contract. The Production Manager achieves this through the effective and coordinated management of the non-union Production department, the union house crew, union crews for events, and other clients, vendors, and partners
Key Responsibilities
Production & Event Management
- Advance assigned events and productions, typically overseeing 50–70% of scheduled shows.
- Coordinate all pre-show communications with artists, tour personnel, promoters, agents, and vendors.
- Determine event-specific production requirements, labor needs, schedules, budgets, and operational plans.
- Manage all aspects of event-day production for assigned shows.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for visiting productions, ensuring their needs are met while keeping internal stakeholders informed.
- Prepare and manage show settlements, invoicing, and payment processing.
- Maintain accurate production records and documentation.
Stage Operations & Facility Management
- Manage stage operations, house equipment maintenance, service contracts, and production-related work calls.
- Identify production equipment and supply needs and oversee purchasing activities.
- Coordinate projects with vendors and contractors from planning through completion.
- Maintain safe, clean, and organized stage and backstage environments.
- Support assigned capital projects and operational improvements.
Union Labor Management
- Oversee union crew schedules, staffing levels, breaks, cuts, and work assignments.
- Partner with union leadership, house crew members, visiting productions, and production management staff to ensure efficient operations.
- Maintain comprehensive knowledge of all applicable union agreements and work rules.
- Ensure compliance with three union contracts and related labor requirements.
- Generate and approve accurate payroll records for union personnel.
- Review show payroll reports and authorize final payroll adjustments.
Training & Department Development
- Partner with the Director of Production to identify and implement training, safety, and operational improvement initiatives.
- Coordinate training programs, safety meetings, and work calls.
- Research industry best practices, equipment, and operational enhancements.
Communication & Leadership
- Maintain consistent communication with production staff, union leadership, union crews, artists, vendors, and Fox Theatre personnel.
- Prepare professional written communications, production documentation, schedules, and reports.
- Foster positive working relationships across multiple departments and external partners.
What You Bring
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Production Management, Stage Management, Hospitality Management, Event Management, Venue Management, Sports Management, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in event production, stage management, venue production, or tour management.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of technical theatre, live event production, and entertainment industry terminology.
- Advanced knowledge of theatrical rigging, lighting, audio systems, carpentry, and production operations.
- Strong understanding of event coordination and entertainment production management.
- Proven experience leading labor crews and managing team operations.
- Strong office administration, project management, and organizational skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
- Excellent customer service, client management, and vendor relationship skills.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to prioritize competing responsibilities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
- Ability to work independently and learn through a variety of training formats, including documentation, videos, virtual meetings, and self-directed learning.
- Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment.
- Ability to pass a post offer background check..
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a performing arts venue, road house, or touring production environment.
- Experience managing union crews and administering union contracts.
- Experience negotiating labor agreements.
- Experience with payroll systems and payroll administration.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
- Experience with Vectorworks, CAD, or other drafting software.
- Active involvement in IAVM or other relevant industry organizations and professional development programs.
Leadership Responsibilities
While this position has no direct reports, it provides operational oversight and leadership for:
- Union House Crew
- Daily union labor and event crews
Physical Requirements
- Ability to traverse multiple floors and all areas of the theatre.
- Ability to climb ladders and work on elevated platforms, catwalks, and high walkways.
- Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to effectively hear and communicate via two-way radio systems.
Work Environment & Schedule
This position requires substantial on-site presence and active participation in theatre operations. Travel for training, meetings, and site visits may occasionally be required. Office space is shared with another team member.
The Production Manager must be available to work a highly flexible schedule, including:
- Days and nights
- Weekdays and weekends
- Holidays
- Occasional overnight shifts
- Extended work hours during peak event periods
This role requires maintaining regular office hours in addition to event coverage and production responsibilities. There is no consistent weekly schedule.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a skilled production professional who is:
- A strong communicator
- A collaborative team player
- Flexible and adaptable
- Self-motivated
- Detail-oriented while maintaining a strategic perspective
- Comfortable leading teams and managing complex operations
- Calm under pressure
- Service-oriented and committed to excellence in live event production