Production Manager
Stage School Australia

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Production Manager to join our team. In this role, you’ll oversee all production and technical aspects of our shows and tours, ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely delivery of each season. Success in this role requires strong leadership, project management expertise, and a commitment to excellence, child safety, and workplace health standards.

Location & Hours

Primarily based across Stage School’s Warehouses in North Coburg and Head Office in Coburg, Melbourne. During performance seasons and tours, you will also work at performance venues and occasionally travel to Brisbane. Standard office hours are 9am–5pm, Mon–Fri, with additional hours required during production periods.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee production and technical staff, contractors, and suppliers throughout the delivery of productions, from design presentation through to final realisation.

Develop and manage production schedules, ensuring all departments (sets, costumes, lighting, sound, staging, props, AV) meet deadlines.

Coordinate between creative teams and technical staff to ensure artistic vision is achieved within available resources.

Manage production budgets, negotiate with suppliers/venues, and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.

Oversee warehouse operations and inventory management systems (Salesforce), ensuring accurate stock control and logistical support.

Supervise design, build, acquisition, and delivery of sets, props, staging, sound, lighting, AV and all technical elements.

Conduct risk assessments, ensure OHS compliance, and contribute to developing safe and efficient production policies.

Lead and manage production staff, including the Production Assistant, providing training and ensuring adherence to WHS and Child Safety policies.

Oversee preparation and logistics for bump-ins, rehearsals, tours, and bump-outs.

Ensure performance reports are completed and actions addressed promptly.

Collaborate with the Director of Production and Creative Director to ensure productions are “tour ready.”

Liaise with venues, producers, contractors, and suppliers to ensure smooth communication and delivery.

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Technical Theatre, Stage Management, Performing Arts (preferred), or equivalent experience.

Typically 5+ years’ experience in the performing arts, with demonstrated success in production or technical management roles.

Proven experience managing budgets, schedules, and production teams.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel) and project management tools.

Valid Victorian Working With Children Check (VIC) or Blue Card (QLD, if applicable).

Skills & Abilities

Strong project management, organisational, and prioritisation skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to convey plans clearly and resolve challenges constructively.

Strong leadership to motivate and influence teams in high-pressure environments.

Analytical and detail-oriented with strong problem-solving ability.

Skilled in negotiation, stakeholder management, and conflict resolution.

Creative and adaptable, with openness to innovation and new approaches.

Why Join Stage School Australia?

Creative & Dynamic Environment – Be part of a team where your work makes a real difference to thousands of young performers and their families.

Purpose-Driven Culture – Guided by our values of Excellence, Growth, Fun, and Opportunity, we empower our staff to be inspired, supported, and to thrive.

Inclusive & Supportive Workplace – We embrace diversity, celebrate difference, and create a professional environment where people can be themselves.

Wellbeing Support – Access our confidential Employee Assistance Program whenever you need it.

Child Safety Commitment:
All children who come to Stage School Australia have a right to feel and be safe. The welfare of the children in our care is always our first priority and we have a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse and neglect, and harm or risk of harm. We aim to create a child safe and child-friendly environment where children feel safe and have fun while enjoying learning the performing arts. All allegations and safety concerns will be treated very seriously and consistently with our policies and procedures. We support and respect all children, as well as our staff and volunteers. We are committed to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children, the cultural safety of children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, and to providing a safe environment for children with a disability.

How to Apply
If you are passionate about event coordination, thrive in a creative environment, and have a strong commitment to child safety and excellence, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the perfect fit for this role.