Production Manager

JOB ROLE: Production Manager

TYPE: Permanent, Full Time
DEPARTMENT: Production
REPORTS TO: Director of Production
LOCATION: 5 Hancock Road, London, E3 3DA | 101 St John St, London, EC1M 4AS | Hybrid

THE COMPANY

Bearded Kitten is a global creative experience agency with a portfolio of award-winning work. Our mission is clear: to fearlessly champion fun and create the unforgettable. Don’t be deceived by our quirky name – Bearded Kitten is the real deal. From large scale brand experiences to cultural launch events, from building immersive worlds to conferences and employee engagement initiatives - we cover it all.

It’s an exciting time to be a Kitten, in the past year the company has grown rapidly and we’ve worked with some of the world’s biggest brands. With an ever-growing client base across the UK and beyond - this is an opportunity to join a fast-paced, innovative team.

THE ROLE

The Production Manager role is responsible for managing and coordinating medium to large scale projects for Bearded Kitten (the creative experience agency) and Bearded Kitten Studios (the creative fabrication arm).

This role will be responsible for ensuring efficient, high-quality, and safe planning/pre-production of any installations, exhibitions, live events, and brand activations assigned by the Head of Production. The position calls for a technical professional with demonstrated experience in all aspects of production management including budget management, as well as someone who is enthusiastic, passionate, helpful, and supportive in all aspects of their work.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Alongside producers and designers, shape and manage all elements of a production from concept to delivery.
• Provide production specifications and ROM costings for competitive pitches and/or new business leads, ensuring that they balance creative ambition with safe and practical delivery whilst offering value to clients.
• Be client-facing at any time and be able to clearly articulate why proposed production methodologies are the best solution. Help provide justification on cost line items, and be willing to listen and collaborate with the client.
• Take responsibility for third-party/subcontractor deliverables and ensure they are in accordance with the agreed specification - overseeing the fabrication/production of all items.
• Work closely with Bearded Kitten’s fabrication department to ensure the accurate pricing and smooth delivery of custom assets.
• Review preferred suppliers and identify possible new partners on a regular basis.
• Work with the producers to ascertain internal and external staffing requirements for assigned projects and support the wider team in contacting, booking, and contracting freelancers - including local crew.
• Ensure projects are delivered to relevant H&S standards as well as writing RAMs, method statements, etc. as and when required.
• Onsite production management during install, live, and derig of all assigned projects.
• Oversee financial control of production budgets. On project completion, work with producers and the finance department on budget reconciliation.
• Assist the director of production in the training and mentoring of junior production team members.
• Support the team where necessary by providing a strong working knowledge of scenic construction methods and associated materials.
• Due to the nature of the events industry, be willing and able to work unsociable hours and travel domestically/internationally as per the requirements of assigned projects.