Deputy Head of Stage at Factory International
Application closing date: 12 Oct 2026 5:00pm
Based: Manchester
Salary: £35,015 per annum
Position: Deputy Head of Stage
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Website: recruitment.factoryinternational.org
Job Description
The Deputy Head of Stage supports the delivery of world-class productions, exhibitions, concerts and events across Factory International. Working closely with the Head of Stage, you will lead stage operations, venue changeovers, technical installations and staffing resources, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency and artistic excellence. You will provide dayto-day leadership to technical teams, collaborate with artists and visiting companies, and play a key role in the successful delivery of diverse and ambitious projects.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support the Head of Department in the deployment and operation of all aspects of Factory International’s technical stage equipment within the Scenic & Gallery Installations team, with particular emphasis on stage operations, show running and venue changeovers.
- Responsibility for deputising for the Head of Stage during periods of absence. Support the Head of Department with staffing levels, rota management and resource planning, ensuring appropriate staffing levels are maintained across all projects and activities.
- Support Exhibition Installation team members as required to ensure exhibitions, installations and productions are delivered to the highest artistic, technical and operational standards.
- Participate in the planning, organisation and supervision of get-ins, fit-ups, technical rehearsals, performances, show runs and get-outs. Ensure appropriate staffing and equipment resources are allocated and utilised in accordance with current Health & Safety legislation and environmental best practice.
- Lead discipline-specific team members in the creation and delivery of artworks, exhibitions, concerts, performances and events. Plan and supervise venue format changeovers, including stage installations, de-rigs, seating reconfigurations and exhibition installations.
- Coordinate truck and vehicle movements on site and operate the venue truck lift system in accordance with established procedures and safety requirements.
- Attend production meetings, rehearsals and technical rehearsals as required. Liaise with visiting productions, artists, technical teams and contractors to ensure their requirements are met and that all activities are compliant with Factory International policies and procedures.
- Work collaboratively with Production Management, Technical Departments, Building Operations and Artistic teams to ensure seamless delivery of all projects and events.
- Support the development of production-related income streams and contribute to maximising commercial opportunities for the organisation.
- Cover the position of Technical Duty Manager on a rota basis and oversee other technical departments in the absence of the relevant manager.
- Support the Rigging Department and other technical departments as operational requirements dictate.
- Assist in the planning and delivery of departmental budgets, resource allocation and equipment procurement, ensuring value for money and operational effectiveness.
- Coordinate and supervise external contractors, suppliers and specialist technicians, ensuring compliance with Factory International standards and safety procedures.
- In conjunction with other technical team members, plan and deliver an effective programme of maintenance, including Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM), housekeeping, stock control, inspection and testing of equipment and venue infrastructure.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of departmental systems, procedures and working practices to enhance efficiency, safety and service delivery.
- In conjunction with the Head of Department, Technical Manager and Director of Production & Building Operations, support the recruitment, training, development and succession planning of technical staff.
- Promote positive working practices within the department and provide effective leadership, supervision and mentoring to permanent, freelance and casual staff.
- Act as a key point of contact during operational incidents and emergency situations, ensuring procedures are followed and appropriate actions are taken.
- Champion sustainable working practices and support Factory International’s environmental commitments through efficient use of resources, waste reduction and responsible working methods.
General
- Actively engaging with the organisation’s vision and policies regarding equality, representation and inclusion, artistic ambition, participation and engagement, health and safety, sustainability, reporting evaluation and monitoring
- Training and talent development is central to the way that Factory International work. All job roles are expected to contribute to our training and development activity, contributing time to supporting our training programmes on site and occasionally off site
- Any other duties that are commensurate with the post
Apply via recruitment.factoryinternational.org