At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technical delivery for events in Reading's iconic cultural venues.
- Company: Join Reading Borough Council, a Disability Confident Employer committed to inclusivity.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, flexible working, pension scheme, and life assurance.
- Why this job: Shape unforgettable performances while innovating in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in technical management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Enjoy career growth opportunities in a dynamic arts setting.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Technical Manager – Reading Arts and Venues
Do you have the technical expertise and leadership skills to deliver exceptional performances and events in some of Reading’s most iconic cultural venues? We’re looking for a Technical Manager to lead the planning and delivery of all technical aspects for events at The Hexagon, Reading Concert Hall, South Street Arts Centre, and other venues.
Reading Borough Council is a Disability Confident Employer and is committed to the recruitment and continued employment of people with disabilities.
About the Role
To find out more about the various venues around Reading please visit: https://whatsonreading.com
Responsibilities
As a key member of the Senior Management Team, you’ll oversee and develop a skilled technical team, ensuring the smooth, safe, and efficient delivery of events across our venues.
You’ll work closely with artists, promoters, hirers, and colleagues to bring outstanding events to life, maintaining the highest production standards and fostering innovation in technical services.
You’ll also be responsible for managing technical equipment, building maintenance, and capital projects, while contributing to the long‑term development of our venues. By effectively managing budgets and driving continuous improvements in technical operations, you will play a vital role in maintaining the quality and reputation of Reading’s leading arts venues.
This role will require flexibility, including some evening, weekend, and bank holiday working.
Qualifications
- Significant experience as a senior technician or head of department in a busy, multi‑purpose venue.
- Strong technical knowledge of live performance, theatre, and conference delivery.
- Proven leadership skills with experience managing and developing technical teams.
- Expertise in health and safety (Level 3) and experience managing budgets.
- A proactive, collaborative approach and the ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced environment.
We offer
We offer a supportive environment to grow and develop your career with the opportunity to put your ideas across. Innovation and ambition is strongly encouraged, and you’ll get a great feel for that working in our friendly and collaborative environment.
A competitive salary alongside a range of benefits including:
- Generous holiday entitlement – 25 days holiday each year plus bank holidays – rising to 33 days after 10 years\’ service, with the option to buy additional leave
- A wide range of flexible working opportunities
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Life Assurance – three times your annual salary (for members of the LGPS)
- On‑site day nursery (Kennet Day nursery) rated outstanding by Ofsted
- Season Ticket Loan – a loan to help with the cost of your rail or bus journey, to and from work
- Lease car salary sacrifice scheme allowing you to lease a brand new, greener car for three years. The monthly fee includes insurance, servicing and road tax
For more information on this position please contact Sarah Cox – Reading Arts and Venues Manager – sarah.cox@reading.gov.uk
Closing Date
Monday 27th October 2025
Interview Date
To be confirmed
Interview setup
Interview will be taking place in person
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Technical Manager - Reading Arts employer: Reading Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Reading Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Manager - Reading Arts
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your technical expertise and past projects. When you meet potential employers, having something tangible to show can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to venues and organisations you’re interested in. Express your enthusiasm and ask if they have any upcoming opportunities – it shows initiative!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of exciting roles, and applying directly can give you a better chance of being noticed. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications this way!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Manager - Reading Arts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your significant experience in technical roles, especially in busy venues. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities of managing events and leading a technical team.
Be Specific About Your Skills: When detailing your technical knowledge, be specific! Mention your expertise in live performance, theatre, and conference delivery. This helps us understand how you can contribute to maintaining high production standards.
Demonstrate Leadership: We’re looking for someone with proven leadership skills. Share examples of how you've managed and developed technical teams in the past. This will show us that you can lead our skilled team effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates about the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reading Borough Council
✨Know Your Venues
Before the interview, take some time to research The Hexagon, Reading Concert Hall, and South Street Arts Centre. Familiarise yourself with their technical setups and past events. This will show your genuine interest and help you discuss how your expertise can enhance their operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a technical team in previous roles. Highlight specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your ability to manage and develop a skilled team effectively.
✨Emphasise Health and Safety Knowledge
Given the importance of health and safety in this role, be ready to discuss your Level 3 expertise. Share experiences where you implemented safety protocols or improved safety standards at events, showcasing your proactive approach.
✨Budget Management Experience
Be prepared to talk about your experience managing budgets for technical operations. Discuss how you’ve driven cost efficiencies or improved resource allocation in past projects, as this will be crucial for maintaining the quality of Reading’s venues.