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Job description

Head of Scenic Workshops (1709)

Do you have experience in managing a scenic construction workshop in theatre or live events? Can you foster innovation in workshop processes to improve build methods and working practices? Can you engage with artists, set designers and crafts people to transform ideas from concept to realisation on stage? Are you up to date with sustainable and safe working practices?

We are looking for a Head of Scenic Workshops to be responsible for the successful operation of our workshops in Stratford-upon-Avon. In this role, you will line manage 5 direct reports to support their teams, significant budgets and ensure that scenery and props are made and delivered safely, sustainably, within budget and on time.

This role requires an experienced workshop leader with a future‑focussed approach to process modernisation and a strong respect for craft. You'll work with our skilled craftspeople and creatives to bring design visions to life through practical execution.

Reporting to and working closely with the Director of Technical and Production, key areas of responsibility include (please see the Role Profile for the comprehensive list):

• Leading and coordinating Scenic Workshop teams: Drawing Office, Scenic Construction (Carpentry and Engineering), Scenic Art, Props and Scenic Operations.
• Working with Production Managers and Designers to realise the production designs.
• Overseeing financial management of the Scenic Workshops, ensuring cost effectiveness.
• Driving innovation in processes, working practices and build methods to improve efficiency and creative outcomes.
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety standards and sustainable practice.

To be suitable for this role, it is essential that you have:

• Proven experience of managing a commercial scenic and/or props workshop in theatre or live events.
• Advanced budgeting skills, including accurate costing of labour and materials.
• Experience in facilities management, familiarity with sustainable practices and ensuring safe workspaces.
• The ability to foster innovation in workshop processes, build methods and working practices.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to support and develop a team of skilled craftspeople.
• Creative problem-solving abilities for design and construction challenges.
• Proficiency in scheduling and workflow management to ensure deadlines are met.

This is a full-time, permanent role based onsite at our Scenic Workshops in Stratford-upon-Avon. You will be working 44 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend and evening work.

Application Process

All applications should be made online using the RSC website. If you need any assistance when applying, please email jobs@rsc.org.uk

The interviews will in two stages and onsite in Stratford-upon-Avon in early April.

About the RSC

The RSC strives for excellence, and values creativity, inclusivity, sustainability, collaboration, and accountability.

We can offer great benefits and aim to create a welcoming, supportive environment which is happy, healthy and safe. We place great importance upon developing a diverse, highly motivated and energised workforce to help achieve our priorities. We put our values at the heart of everything we do.

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all individuals.

We believe that safeguarding children and adults is everyone's responsibility, and everybody working at the RSC has a duty to place safeguarding at the heart of their work. We welcome candidates who will support and advocate the RSC's environmental objectives continuing to improve our sustainability work and actions both on and off stage.

The Royal Shakespeare Company (no. 212481) is a registered charity.

• Artistic/Executive:Executive
• Position Type:Permanent (Full Time)
• Closing Date:29 March 2026
• Salary:£75,000 per annum, plus benefits