JOB DESCRIPTION PRODUCTION MANAGER Department:
Production
Supervisor:
Executive Director
Classification:
Full Time / Annual – Exempt
Geffen Playhouse has been a hub of the Los Angeles theater scene since opening its doors in 1995. Noted for its intimacy and celebrated for its renowned mix of classic and contemporary plays as well as provocative world premiere productions, the not-for-profit organization continues to present a body of work that garners national recognition. Named in honor of entertainment mogul and philanthropist David Geffen, who made the initial donation to the theater, the company was founded by Gilbert Cates and is currently helmed by Executive Director Gil Cates, Jr., Artistic Director Matt Shakman and Board Chair Howard Tenenbaum. Proudly associated with UCLA, the Geffen welcomes an audience of more than 130,000 each year, and maintains extensive education and community engagement programs, designed to involve underserved young people and the community at large in the arts.
Production Manager Basic Function: Coordinate and manage scheduling, budgeting, contracting and execution of all aspects of physical productions including scenery, lights, costumes, props, paint, sound, and projections for 9 fully produced season productions in addition to special events.
Duties and Responsibilities: • Hire, supervise, evaluate and manage production, stage management, and over hire staff • Negotiate contracts for designers, stage managers and other artists and casual employees, and supervise the execution of the same • Create, implement, and monitor production budgets alongside the Producer • Manage all aspects of the production process, including scheduling and facilitating meetings, interfacing with contracted labor, communicating and implementing production plans • Help coordinate overall season planning • Facilitate production-related communication between all departments and theatre administration and outside hires as related to each production • Maintain morale for all production-related personnel • Arrange and run production meetings for each production • Facilitate production issues regarding space and building expansion, performance use and improvements • Respond to queries from and interview designers, stage managers, and technicians • Alongside Producer, recommend designers and stage managers for each production • Act as a liaison with unions as needed during the production process; remain knowledgeable of agreements including those with AEA, LORT, USA, and SDC, and provide interpretations as needed • Continuously monitor the progress of each production area to ensure all departments are ready for tech week • Work closely with the Technical Director to ensure all fire, life safety issues and safety equipment are maintained in accordance with laws, regulations and codes. • Carry out other duties as requested by the Artistic Director or Executive Director. • Report finances to CFO regularly, including potential budget overages in a timely manner.
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Work with Production Office Manager to track payroll and show budgets. Collaborate and work with Development Department and Events Manager to help identify technical needs and requirements for special events including the Geffen GALA.
Education/Skills Required: • Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or professional equivalent • Master’s Degree in relevant field (preferred) • 3-5 years production management experience • Thorough knowledge of all areas of theatrical production, particularly technical design and technology • Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Applications • Ability to read, interpret and modify when necessary various technical drawings, plots and plans required to realize scenic, sound and lighting designs (knowledge of Vectorworks and AutoCAD) • Ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner and gather/analyze information skillfully • Ability to work well in group problem-solving situations • Ability to work under pressure on many projects and work with people of varying experience levels • Strong verbal and written communication, diplomatic and leadership skills. • The ability to work calmly in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
Special Requirements/Knowledge • Flexible schedule, including possible evenings and weekend hours Compensation: •
Compensation is competitive with prevailing compensation for similar positions within the non-profit performing arts industry. Excellent benefit package offered, including medical, dental, vision insurance, vacation pay, paid sick leave, personal days, and 401(k) retirement program.
To Apply: •
Please submit a cover letter and resume in .pdf or .doc format at www.geffenplayhouse.org/apply and select Production Manager from the pull down list. No phone calls, please.
Geffen Playhouse provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Geffen Playhouse complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Geffen Playhouse expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Geffen Playhouse’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge .