Job Description for Production Manager
Company Overview
We are most famous for our award-winning event, buried deep in the Crown Estate near Ascot. 17 years ago, Mike & Alison Battle created the event out of their own desire to take their children somewhere that would celebrate the pure, commercially unsullied, magic of Christmas. Now, with the help of Hollywood set-designers, West-End actors and more than a sprinkling of magic, the event is keeping the magic of Christmas alive for thousands of children every year.
LaplandUK celebrates and honours the values, imagination and wonderment of childhood through our magical world, rich storytelling and immersive memory making experiences.
This is an exciting period of growth for us, as we look for new ways to bring the Lapland experience to a global audience through media, publishing, live shows and eCommerce channels.
Job Title: Production Manager
Location: Head Office - London; Event Site – Various; Filming locations - Various
Reporting to: Head of Production
Duration: Full Time
Job Summary:
The Production Manager is responsible for turning the creative vision outlined by the Art Director and Theatrical Show Director into fully realized sets and installations. Reporting to the Head of Production, the Production Manager ensures that all technical and logistical aspects are delivered to the highest standard, meeting the creative brief, timelines, and budgets. This includes overseeing the build, on-site delivery, and maintenance during the event, as well as the dismantling process afterward. They will work on producing documentation and specifications that support the live delivery of the event.
Key Responsibilities:
Delivery of Creative Brief:
· Work collaboratively with the Art Director and Theatrical Show Director to fully understand the creative vision and ensure it is achievable within technical and logistical constraints.
· Translate creative concepts into actionable production plans, balancing artistic integrity with practical feasibility.
· Provide regular updates to the Head of Production on progress, challenges, and solutions.
Pre-Event Planning and Scheduling:
· Develop comprehensive production schedules covering fabrication, delivery, installation, maintenance, and dismantling phases.
· Source and liaise with fabricators, suppliers, and contractors to deliver set elements to the highest standards.
· Conduct site visits to ensure the venue is ready to accommodate the planned designs and logistical needs.
· Coordinate with the operations and site teams to align production activities with the overall event schedule.
On-Site Build and Installation:
· Oversee the delivery, assembly, and installation of sets and theatrical elements, ensuring they meet the creative brief.
· Supervise on-site teams, including carpenters, riggers, and technicians, to ensure efficient and safe operations.
· Troubleshoot any issues during the build and installation phases and implement solutions promptly.
Event Maintenance and Support:
· Ensure a skilled maintenance team is present on-site throughout the event to address repairs or adjustments promptly.
· Act as the primary point of contact for production-related issues during the event, working closely with the Art Director and Show Director.
· Monitor the integrity and functionality of sets, props, and installations during the event.
Dismantling and Post-Event Operations:
· Develop and manage the schedule for dismantling sets and installations in collaboration with operations and site teams.
· Oversee the safe removal, inventory, and storage or disposal of materials and reusable components.
· Conduct post-event evaluations with the Head of Production, Art Director, and Show Director to assess successes and identify areas for improvement.
Essential Skills and Qualifications:
· Proven experience in production management for live events, theatrical productions, or immersive experiences.
· Strong understanding of set construction, fabrication techniques, and materials.
· Ability to deliver creative visions within practical, financial, and logistical constraints.
· Exceptional project management skills, including scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
· Experience supervising on-site teams during builds, installations, and dismantling phases.
· Knowledge of health and safety regulations and the ability to conduct risk assessments.
· Proficiency in production tools and software (e.g., CAD, SketchUp, or similar).
Desirable Skills:
· Experience working on complex, multi-disciplinary events involving creative and theatrical elements.
· Certification in health and safety (e.g., NEBOSH, IOSH).
· Familiarity with technical production equipment, including rigging and lighting systems.
· Knowledge of sustainable production practices.
Key Attributes:
· Strong ability to collaborate with multiple creative and operational stakeholders while managing competing priorities.
· Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a commitment to delivering high-quality results.
· Solutions-focused problem-solver, capable of addressing challenges promptly and effectively.
· Calm and composed under pressure, able to lead and inspire teams in a fast-paced environment.
· Passionate about delivering exceptional creative and theatrical experiences.
Working Conditions:
· This position requires working on live events/film sets, which may involve long hours, evenings, weekends, and irregular hours.
· The job may also involve travel to different live event or shooting locations.
Life at LaplandUK:
At LaplandUK, we believe in the magic of collaboration, a steadfast commitment to excellence, and a team that's always willing to roll up their sleeves and get involved. Working with us means being part of a dynamic environment where collaboration brings out the best in everyone, diverse talents converge, and innovation thrives. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every team member is dedicated to achieving the highest standards, contributing to a workplace culture that values continuous improvement and outstanding results.
We're not just looking for employees; we want people who are excited to get involved, embrace challenges, and bring a hands-on approach to their work, creating a workplace full of positivity and collective success. Overall, working at LaplandUK offers a chance to be part of something truly special, where the wonder of childhood is celebrated by a team dedicated to making memories for over 40,000 families each year.
Passion for the Mission.
It is more than a job to us. We understand the importance of what we do and its legacy. Be guest obsessed.
Driven by our Ambition.
We are determined to make it happen, whatever it takes. Anything is possible and we’ll never give up.
Responsible for Everything.
We own what we do, and we get the job done. We take the work seriously, but never ourselves. We support and challenge positively to find our truths.
We only win Together.
Individually we are strong, but together we can change the world.
Benefits:
· Flexible hybrid working (1 day in London, 3 days in Ascot, 1 day at home)
· Dog friendly office
· 20 days annual leave + bank holidays.
· Contribution towards further development and training
· Perks at work discount scheme
· Vitality private healthcare scheme (after qualifying period)
· Monthly team social events
Applicants must be authorised to work in the United Kingdom without the need for visa sponsorship.
LaplandUK reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any time. Due to the high number of applications being received, we may not be able to respond to every applicant.
LaplandUK is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace that seeks to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We therefore encourage applications from all genders, races, religions, ages and sexual orientations, as well as parents, veterans, people living with disabilities, and any other groups that could bring diverse perspectives to our business.