Design Workshop Manager
THE LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE
Little Angel Theatre, Studios and new Workshop space
Full-time
20th April 2026
Listed today
Design Workshop Manager Recruitment pack OVERVIEW Reports to: Associate Director Salary: Hours: £28,750 per annum This is a 35-hour-a-week role worked over a variable schedule. This role requires regular weekend work. Overtime is not paid but time off in lieu will be given. As a company we are engaging with a trial of a 4-day working week, this will shift regular working days to a 4 day week with no adjustment to offered salary. This role is based on-site at Little Angel Theatre, Studios and new Workshop space. Holiday: 26 days per annum + bank holidays. This is adjusted during our 4 day week trial. Fixed term contract: 1 year fixed term. We particularly welcome applicants who are currently under-represented in the arts and puppetry sector. For further information or to discuss access requirements for your application contact us at recruitment@littleangeltheatre.com Please head to our website to see how to apply for the position. https://www.littleangeltheatre.com/about-us/jobs-and-opportunities/ About Little Angel Theatre “Little Angel is nothing less than an icon of north London childhood.” Time Out, 2016 Little Angel Theatre is a home for puppetry. Since its doors first opened in 1961 the theatre has been dedicated to creating and sharing inspiring stories. Puppetry is at the heart of this innovative theatre, from igniting the imaginations of the youngest minds to equipping tomorrow’s puppeteers with the tools they need to succeed. As well as an internationally recognised theatre with productions touring throughout the UK and across the globe, Little Angel Theatre also has its roots in Islington and works with its local, diverse community to break down barriers to arts engagement so all can benefit and enjoy this remarkable art form. CORE DUTIES The Role The Design Workshop Manager will oversee the organisation, safety, and smooth operation of the workshop, ensuring it remains an efficient, creative, and compliant environment. The post-holder will support the Associate Director to manage new commissions, support designers and makers, and help develop new commercial opportunities for the Theatre. This role requires a motivated self-starter with excellent organisational skills, a strong eye for detail, and the ability to balance creative and administrative responsibilities. Key Responsibilities Workshop & Facilities Management • Establish and maintain a well-organised, efficient workshop environment • Ensure adherence to all Health & Safety procedures and compliance requirements • Maintain COSHH documentation and ensure safe storage and use of materials • Oversee maintenance, upkeep, and safe operation of workshop equipment • Order and manage workshop supplies and materials within budget • Promote and implement environmentally responsible working practices Commissions & Production Management • Administer new commissions from initial enquiry through to delivery • Manage in-house puppet and design builds, ensuring timelines and budgets are met • Work collaboratively with internal teams to support production requirements • Liaise with external clients on new puppet and design commissions • Draft schedules, budgets, and documentation for commissioned work Freelance & Team Management • Recruit, contract, and manage freelance designers and makers • Provide oversight and support throughout build processes • Participate in the build and creative process for commissions where appropriate / practical • Foster a positive, collaborative, and solutions-focused workshop culture Business Development & Support • Support the identification and development of new projects and clients • Contribute to the growth of commercial and commissioned activity • Undertake additional duties as required to support the wider aims of the Theatre Perks of the job Industry-leading in supporting staff with a flexible work/life approach. • 4-day working week, with full 5-day pay. • • Proactive approach to training and development. • Generous annual leave allowance, including birthday leave. • Free places on adult learning courses to develop your skills. • Be part of an exciting, dynamic and award winning organisation. • Complimentary tickets to shows for you and your family. • Cycle to work scheme. • Employee benefits scheme, including discounts at cinemas and local / national retailers. PERSON SPECIFICATION Little Angel makes work for a wide-ranging family audience. All staff members are expected to represent the company in a friendly and approachable manner at all times. Essential • Highly organised with strong administrative skills • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) • Resilient and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously • Highly motivated and proactive • Strong attention to detail • Confident problem solver who uses initiative and works independently • Strong team player • Experience working with 3D making processes or practical workshop skills Desirable • Passion for puppetry and/or theatre • Experience in puppet making • Commercial or client-facing experience • Experience managing freelancers or creative teams This job will require proof that you have the right to work in the UK. We are legally required to perform a right to work check with the chosen candidate. APPLICATIONS Little Angel Theatre is an Equal Opportunities and accredited London Living Wage employer. Please head to our website to see how to apply for the position: https://www.littleangeltheatre.com/about-us/jobs-and-opportunities/ There you will need to download and complete our Application and Equal Opportunities forms. Please send your completed application form to recruitment@littleangeltheatre.com with the subject line WM26 You can fill in our Equal Opportunities form here: https://forms.gle/9HvGCmqMvaGtqCuv7 As part of any recruitment process, Little Angel collects and processes personal data relating to job applicants. Your information will be shared internally on a limited basis only for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. If your application for employment is unsuccessful, Little Angel will hold your data on file for six months after the end of the relevant recruitment process. Closing date for applications: 5pm Monday 20th April 2026 Interviews: Start date: Week commencing 27th April 2026 June 2026 For more information about the company please see www.littleangeltheatre.com Little Angel Theatre is an Equal Opportunities and accredited London Living Wage employer.