Production Manager, Performing Arts, Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
Production Manager, Performing Arts

Application Deadline: November 12, 2023, 11:59pm
Wage: $86,757-$117,122

Position Summary

Reporting to the Managing Director, Events, Production, Marketing and Communications the Production Manager, Performing Arts (PM,PA) is responsible for the planning, management, crewing, supervision and budgeting of all technical and production elements of performing arts productions, Banff Centre programs, presentations, and related activities across Banff Centre.

The PM,PA is responsible for detailed and accurate staffing, scheduling for performing arts productions and presentations from annual planning to program execution.

The PM, PA supports specific training programs required to maintain technical expertise; and oversees the practicum training programs related and offered by the Performing Arts area.

The PM,PA employs a working knowledge of the following: techniques; methods and procedures of theatre; dance/music productions and presentations including stage, set, sound, projection, lighting design and implementation; stage management; computerized control systems; stage carpentry and rigging; and appropriate safety procedures to analyze and evaluate the need for technical support for programs, events and performances

Roles and Responsibilities

Scheduling and Administration

  • Manages staff in the performing arts technical and production areas, shops and venues.
  • Manages the day-to-day scheduling/booking of technical and production teams, and production activities; prepares and oversees schedule for venue activities and supervises the successful and timely load in and out of productions and presentations.
  • Develops production schedule detailing all rehearsals, materials acquisition, set build, tech, strike and all other related production tasks; reconciling and reporting resources used.
  • Initiates regular project/program production meetings with appropriate staff and project teams; and monitors project progress so that activity stays on budget and on time.
  • Responsible for the preparation, review, and approval of weekly timesheets in accordance with required timelines set out in the collective agreement.
  • Sources and hires external crew to support programming needs and oversees the work of outside contractors, shops, and suppliers.

Technical and Production

  • Assumes responsibility for performing arts productions by ensuring all technical and production elements on assigned projects are delivered on schedule and on budget; working with The ATD and Department Heads to determine necessary technical supports, such as lighting, sound, staging, projection and special needs, necessary for events and performances in advance of production dates; troubleshoots technical and production challenges as required;
  • Advises on the technical and production specifications, costs and usage of equipment and labour required for the programs, events and shows. Assists and advises Programming and Presentation departments in the choice and/or feasibility of programs, projects and residencies; advises on the technical specifications, costs and usage of technical equipment, and ensures the implementations of approved technical designs for each show.
  • Works with all departments, clients, teams, and faculty in facilitating, managing, and organizing production requirements by conducting technical assessments, analyzing technical riders, preparing production costings, supporting adjudications, and identifying crew resource and venue/space requirements.
  • Communicates with designers, directors, and stage management as necessary for troubleshooting and production continuity.
  • Ensures that production projects and technical riders are properly analyzed, costed, scheduled, implemented and managed. This includes maintaining all technical documentation, CAD drawings and other records as necessary for Production/Presentation.
  • Oversees production and technical elements are implemented, including build, paint, props, maintenance and strike; ensures smooth operation of the technical aspects of all productions.
  • Maintains inventory and ordering of specialized purchases, leases, rent and/or borrows equipment as needed, within approved budget.
  • Monitors the condition of equipment including lighting, sound, projections, staging, wardrobe, scenic, properties and rigging equipment. Arranges for the repair and replacement within budget.
  • Ensures proper set up, maintenance, and operation of lighting and sound systems for theatre, dance, music, programming and presentations.
  • As required, supports the set-up, maintenance and safe operation of Scenic and Wardrobe shops, and associated facilities.
  • Ensures the successful and timely load in and out of productions and presentations.
  • Maintains current knowledge of all equipment and ensures supervised training on all equipment.
  • Develops, implements and monitors policies to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Ensures inventories are managed in accordance with established procedures.
  • Stays current with technology and software needs relative to Banff Centre performing arts facilities.

Practicum Program

  • Plans, develops and manages the practicum programs so that training is in alignment with Banff Centre objectives. Ensures timely recruitment of practicums and mentors and oversees that the participant’s training objectives are met.
  • Directs the design and development of practicum group events/training sessions as appropriate.
  • Recruits for practicum faculty, contract staff and guest speakers as required.

Financial Responsibilities

  • Contributes to the preparation of the program production operating plans and budgets.
  • Tracks project expenses within program budget and provides details for program reconciliation.
  • Develops capital requirements and capital purchase plan of equipment and systems for the Performing Arts venues and provides an annual technical inventory of all equipment with recommendations for replacement, or refurbishment.
  • Manages administration tasks undertaken by staff including but not limited to, contracts, billings, collections and tracking, purchase orders, and rentals; Prepares and processes/approves billing, purchase orders, cheque requisitions, petty cash vouchers, reimbursement, and expense claims as required.
  • Prepares and manages technical and production budgets; and with direction from MD, develops annual production operating plans and budgets, provides regular financial tracking and forecasting reports, monitors and controls production and operational budgets ensuring a balanced budget, tracking expenses within budgets, and providing details for budget reconciliation.

Qualifications and Educational Requirements

  • Completion of university degree in related discipline, or related experience.
  • Minimum of five years professional experience supervising in a unionized stage environment.
  • Minimum of ten years professional experience as a Production Manager or Technical Director
  • Exceptional communication, supervisory, and technical skills
  • Strong organizational and budgeting skills, including balancing multiple responsibilities and effectively meeting deadlines •
  • Experience developing managing both annual and program/project production budgets
    thorough knowledge of lighting, sound, and video.
  • Working knowledge of current safety standards.
  • Product, material, pricing, and logistics research skills.
  • Experience fulfilling technical and touring riders and/or touring of productions.
  • Experience with a variety of types of live performance including theatre, dance, and music.
  • Ability to read technical drawings and schematics.
  • Proficiency and practical experience using Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong personnel, scheduling, and budgetary management skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work on multiple projects with tight deadlines and a positive attitude while working under pressure.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.

How to Apply:

Please submit your application directly via www.banffcentre.ca/careers


Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
107 Tunnel Mountain Drive
Box 1020, Banff, Alberta
Canada T1L 1H5

403-762-6177
careers@banffcentre.ca