RWS Global
Manager, Scenic & Props Design
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Manager, Scenic & Props Design
Reports To: Director, Design | Live Experiences
Working Hours:
- Non-install schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
- During install schedule: as needed (average 10-hour days with compensatory time off post-install)
Place of Work: UK HQ, Mill Court, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK12 5EU Estimated Start Date: August 1st, 2026 Status: Full-time (3 days in office, 2 days remote), Mobile
About RWS Global
As the world’s largest producer of groundbreaking live entertainment, RWS Global delivers meaningful connections and customised experiences across theatre, events, multimedia—and since 2024—live sporting events via RWS Global Sports.
Headquartered in New York, London, Cincinnati, and Sydney, with dedicated studios in NYC and the UK, RWS Global serves a global client base—encompassing major brands, theatres, cruise lines, sports properties, venues, parks, and resorts—providing end-to-end services from ideation to execution.
With over 8,000 employees worldwide and producing one million live moments daily, RWS Global’s roster of clients includes Apple, Coca-Cola, Disney, Ferrari World, ICC Cricket, Lionsgate, MSC Cruises, Six Flags, Warner Bros., and more. For details, visit rwsglobal.com.
Job Summary
Reporting to Director, Live Experience Design, this role will manage the creation, maintenance, and functionality of props and scenery for RWS Global clients.
Key Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with creative teams to design owned scenery and props—ensuring they align with storytelling goals and technical needs—whether establishing set dressings, enhancing performances, or executing scene transformations.
- Document, repair, and replace props and scenic elements, maintaining a robust system of care instructions, replacement inventories, and regimens for in-house studios.
- Oversee stop inventory of props and scenic components across storage and rehearsal studios.
Key Tasks & Responsibilities
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Creative & Conceptual Development
- Develop production concepts for scenery and props using:
- 3D tools: Photoshop, Illustrator, AutoCAD, Vectorworks, CAD software
- Manual sketching for design exploration
- Create build/shop drawings, production timelines, and vendor Request for Proposal (RFP) documentation.
Project & Vendor Coordination
- Manage pre-production: Coordinate vendor tenders, negotiate bids, monitor budgets, and align timelines with production calendars.
- Conduct on-location assessments to support scenic load-ins, load-outs, and technical rehearsals.
- Independently resolve onsite and remote issues essential to production integrity.
Engineering & Workshop Leadership
- Fabricate, modify, and maintain in-house props and scenic elements, including prototyping for creative alignment.
- Track inventory and develop and enforce detailed "props bibles"—covering synthesis, condition tracking, transport manifests, and care protocols.
- Supervise internal teams, freelancers, artisans, and interns to ensure a safe, efficient workshop environment.
Operations & Logistics
- Manage prop logistics, including shipping, road kits, and installation supplies.
- Reconcile department budgets, tracking expenses and ensuring financial accountability.
- Oversee tool and equipment safety, supply organization, and shop maintenance.
Qualifications & Required Skills
Core Attributes
- Passionate about live entertainment—ideally with experience in attraction/theatrical design.
- Project management expertise: Ability to juggle multiple priorities, deadlines, and unplanned tasks.
- Technical proficiency: Advanced Microsoft Office Suite skills (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) or willingness to train.
- Attention to detail: Must type "Blue Iguana" on the top of their resume prior to applying.
- Independent & proactive: Self-starter with a track record of project success and problem-solving.
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Technical Competencies
- Creativity & Technical Execution:
- Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator, CAD tools, sketching, or drafting.
- Hands-on experience with painting, carpentry, electrical/lighting trouble-shooting, and sculpture.
- Basic to moderate sewing, casting, and mould-making skills.
- Management & Accountability:
- Ability to lead teams and uphold company standards.
- Budgeting expertise and ** était reporting**.
- Physical Capability:
- Strength & agility (capable of lifting 50 lbs.
- Comfort with working at heights (ladders, lifts) while adhering to safety equipment.
- Flexibility: On average, up to 40% travel outside office due to install/project needs.
Experience & Education
- Required: 3–5 years’ experience in:
- Project management, props($cenic fabrication, workshop operations, or technical theatre design—combination qualifies.
- Minimum: high school diploma; Bachelor’s degree in Design or Technical Theatre preferred.
- Passport: Mandatory for any role involving travel.
Company Benefits
- Competitive Salary
- Pension Plan
- 25 paid holiday days (excluding Bank Holidays)
- Paid parental leave
- Company equipment: Mac or PC, phone, and hardware allowance
- Flexible structure: Remote days + childcare support
- Employee Assistance Programme & sponsored wellness services
*Note: This description is not exhaustive. Other responsibilities may arise as required by the position._
Diversity Statement
Diverse Is Who We Are
At RWS Global, the rich tapestry of differences defines us—it’s the foundation of our culture, reputation, and success. We welcome every employee, from underrepresented backgrounds to those richer in expertise. Benchtop conversation matters; diversity isn’t a checkbox, but a fundamental strength.
Bring our total selves—curiosities, skills, challenges—without question.
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