Production Manager

This position is responsible for overseeing production operations and successful execution of all events and performances at the Wisconsin Union Theater (WUT), including the historic Shannon Hall and the Play Circle. Serves as an integral member of a cross-functional team which supports upwards of 250-300 events each year, including a season of performing arts, student-produced activities, and University/community events.

Primary responsibilities of this role will include communication with Wisconsin Union Theater staff and renters for procurement of bookings and advancing of productions. Responsible for advancing WUT and rental events; cultivating and maintaining a supportive and safe working environment; ensuring the highest production standards; and supporting student learning and engagement in all areas of production. Assists with long-term strategies to maximize the use of WUT resources that benefit the UW-Madison campus community and drive revenue for the WUT.

Flexible and varying schedule includes Monday -Friday office hours with some events on evenings/weekends depending on business needs.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Oversees various tasks and units related to different aspects of an arts production to turn artistic vision into reality. May work in various areas of media such as theater, TV, film, installations, etc. that require production of artistic materials. Improves efficiency and cost effectiveness of a production by supervising budgeting, taking care of needs of artists and other tasks to ensure schedules and budget are met.
20% Implements the artistic vision while following project specifications, timeline, budget, and deadlines
10% May develop and maintain the production budget which includes, but is not limited to, costs for materials, cast and/or orchestra, property, and other related expenses
30% Develops highly motivated and collaborative production team which includes all those in charge of the various areas of the production including director, set designer, lighting designer, costume designer, musical director, publicist, choreographer, technical director, stage manager, and other functions of the production
20% Meets with various department leads to discuss project improvement
15% Responsible for hiring, training and scheduling two full-time Technical Directors and student/part-time stagehands and processing department payroll
5% Responsibile for fostering a welcoming, safe, high-quality, customer-focused environment to support a variety of groups and events utilizing Wisconsin Union Theater spaces

Requirements

*3+ years of Production/Venue Management, Technical Theater, Event Production, or related experience.
*Knowledge of and experience with all areas of technical theater including scenic, lighting, sound, video/projection, rigging, and maintaining a safe working environment. Experience should include hands-on proficiency with setting up, operating and troubleshooting technical equipment and software.
*Demonstrated experience building a collegial and collaborative team..
*Ability to communicate and work effectively with students and groups of varying backgrounds, interests and abilities in an atmosphere of mutual respect.
*Ability to identify, define, and manage new initiatives and improvements to existing procedures.

Preferred:Familiarity with drafting software (Autocad, Vectorworks, AutoDesk) and/or digital livestreaming platforms (VMix, Perigon Live, Streamyard and Zoom)
Preferred: Experience with budgeting and planning for equipment upgrades and capital projects