QC Assistant/Production Operative

Playful Productions is one of the leading independent theatre production companies in the West End. We are passionate about presenting high-quality shows to audiences across the UK and beyond. We are committed to a workplace culture that embraces equality, diversity and inclusion across all departments.

The Production Assistant supports the day-to-day management of West End productions, including both Broadway and international transfers, tours, new productions, large-scale productions and workshops. The Production Assistant works closely with the Production Coordinator to deliver the allocated productions on budget and to schedule. They will support and assist the production process from start to finish including schedules, negotiations, recruitment of production staff, processes (including accounts, payroll, royalties, marketing, technical), company welfare, press nights and travel/accommodation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the coordination of productions from pre-production to closing.
• Assist the coordination of the casting process; support the recruitment and appointment of production staff, including arranging interviews and preparing contractual terms.
• Draft deals for cast, stage management and technical production staff in line with budget and union agreements.
• Draft and log production contracts no later than two weeks prior to an individual’s start date.
• Update the Head of Contracts with the status of issuing all production contracts.
• Support the preparation and dispatch of individual investment agreements.
• Administer updates and reports to Producers and Executive Producers on the status and progress of a production.
• Work closely with the Company Management team of each production on the management of all production staff.
• Produce and distribute schedules and welcome packs as necessary.
• Liaise with producers, co-producers and creative teams as required.
• Work closely with the Health and Safety Consultant on each show to support the implementation of health and safety policies and procedures.
• Monitor developments in union agreements and ensure that Playful Productions fulfils its obligations as an employer.
• Check and proof weekly theatre contra statements.
• Assist in checking the weekly payroll.
• Apply for visas, work permits and appropriate tax exemptions where necessary for foreign personnel involved in UK productions.
• Oversee travel, transport, accommodation and per diems.
• Assist in the coordination of every aspect of press and media nights.
• Deputise for the Production Coordinator as and when required.
• Support on booking access performances.
• Respond to complaints and special requests.
• Minute meetings as required.
• Promote a fair, inclusive and respectful working environment through policies, training and procedures.
• Engage with the development process, attending performances, readings and workshops when required.
• Build relationships with potential creative teams, cast, stage managers, casting directors etc.
• Contribute to the smooth day-to-day running of the office.

Experience Required:

• Experience of booking travel and accommodation for large-scale projects.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.
• A flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends as required.
• Experience of coordinating large-scale events, such as press nights.
• Proven ability to work effectively with high-level stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate with confidence at all levels.
• Willingness to work collaboratively and support other roles when required.
• Experience of casting and recruitment processes.
• Experience of contract drafting.
• Experience of working on more than one production simultaneously.
• Provide holiday and out of office cover for other members of the Production Team as required.

Contract: Permanent. Subject to a three-month probation period.

Please write “Production Assistant” in the subject of the email.