Scenic Workshop Manager London, UK

About WPP Production

We are WPP Production - the unified global production company that brings together all of WPP's content producers, studios and craft experts into one connected organisation. We combine world-class human craft with next generation technology to originate, design, and deliver multi-channel content systems at scale. Built for borderless collaboration and powered by deep craft expertise, we are the production engine designed for today's always on, AI driven marketing world.

About WPP

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth.

THE ROLE:

The Workshop Manager is a critical role responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of our scenic fabrication workshop. This individual will lead a core team of skilled craftspeople to ensure the safe, efficient, and high-quality production of all scenic elements. A critical aspect of this role is working in exceptionally close partnership with the Scenic Project Managers to translate design visions and technical specifications into buildable solutions. The Workshop Manager will develop schedules, fabrication strategies, manage workshop resources, uphold stringent safety standards, and drive production to ensure all scenic projects are delivered to the highest quality, on time, and within budget, directly supporting the Project Manager's overall project goals and client commitments.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage the day-to-day operations and resources of the workshop and scenic warehouse teams.
• Work closely with the scenic PMs, production Managers and Creative team to guarantee smooth, end-to-end project delivery.
• Offer input and advice on materials, design, and pricing (stock and custom) to other internal departments.
• Work with draftsperson to create technical drawings and plans to support manufacturing and project execution.
• Schedule and coordinate workshop tasks, ensuring efficient workflow and timely project completion.
• Oversee the operation and programming of CNC machinery to support manufacturing processes.
• Propose cost-effective and sustainable solutions for all scenic designs.
• Supervise the construction of custom builds and the preparation of all scenic stock items.
• Maintain a high level of health and safety across all workshop operations.
• Manage the stock of all tools, materials, and consumables.
• Oversee the maintenance of all workshop machinery and tools.
• Work closely with internal teams to guarantee smooth, end-to-end project delivery.
• Work with the Scenic PMs to lead the growth and development of the Scenic department and team.

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE ROLE:

• Proven expertise in CNC programming for various materials (wood, plastics, non-ferrous metals).
• Demonstrated experience operating and troubleshooting industrial CNC routers/mills.
• Experience in managing CNC production workflow, including job scheduling, material nesting, and quality control of cut parts.
• Ability to read, interpret, and work from complex technical drawings, CAD files (e.g., AutoCAD, Vectorworks), and 3D models (e.g., SketchUp).
• Proven experience in scenic build within the events, theatre, or exhibition industry with a strong technical knowledge of scenic materials and construction methods with expert proficiency in various fabrication techniques including carpentry, metalwork (welding, cutting, grinding), rigging principles, and general construction.
• Strong understanding of scenic painting techniques, prop making, and finishing processes.
• Highly organised, comfortable interpreting client designs, and adept at stakeholder management.
• Proficient in the safe operation of a wide range of power tools, hand tools, and workshop machinery (table saws, panel saws, routers, etc.).
• Experienced in leading, developing, and managing a team.
• Flexible and able to adapt to changing project requirements, designs, and priorities.
• Able to maintain a calm, methodical approach when working under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Passionate about the industry, problem-solving, sustainable practices, and innovative builds.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous eye for detail, ensuring high standards of quality and accuracy in all fabricated elements.
• Time Management: Proven ability to manage tight deadlines and work efficiently in a fast-paced, dynamic production environment.
• Adaptability: Flexible and able to adapt to changing project requirements, designs, and priorities.
• Safety Conscious: Unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe working environment for all team members.
• Budget Acumen: Ability to manage and track project costs effectively.
• Creativity: A passion for scenic artistry and an understanding of design aesthetics.

WHAT WE OFFER

• 28 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays) + volunteer day.
• Employee quarterly bonus scheme.
• Enhanced Maternity, Adoption and Shared Parental leave.
• A 1.5:1 matching pension structure.
• Help@hand enhanced benefits app, TELUS tool, annual eye test and many more.
• A company committed to investing in people with tailored training programmes and development budgets.
• Enhanced and ongoing wellbeing & sustainability incentives and activities throughout the year.
• International travel for work.
• Season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme.
• Life Assurance & Group Income Protection scheme.

Inclusion and Impact

WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

Data

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