At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage installation activities for exciting events and immersive experiences.
- Company: Join Visual Architects, a dynamic company at the forefront of event production.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, free parking, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a focus on safety and operational excellence.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team delivering high-quality installations that wow audiences.
- Qualifications: Experience in event installations and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Denton, Manchester
Type: Full Time
Reports to: Operations Director
Role Overview
The Installation Manager at Visual Architects is responsible for the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of all installation activity across events, festivals, immersive experiences, and brand activations. This role is accountable for translating creative concepts into safe, efficient, and high-quality on-site delivery, ensuring projects are completed on time, on budget, and to the highest operational standards. The Installation Manager leads the Installation Department and acts as the operational bridge between Sales, Design, Warehouse, Logistics, Production, and On-Site Teams. The role requires strong leadership, advanced logistical planning, people management capability, and extensive experience managing complex event installations within fast-paced environments. The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining Visual Architects’ delivery standards, operational efficiency, and reputation across all projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership and Management
- Lead and manage the Installation Department across all live projects and operational activity.
- Develop, implement, and continuously improve installation processes and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Ensure installation operations remain scalable, efficient, and commercially viable as the business grows.
- Oversee departmental resource planning, labour allocation, and scheduling across concurrent projects.
- Manage installation budgets, labour spend, vehicle allocation, and operational costs effectively.
- Support profitability through efficient planning, resource management, and reduction of unnecessary damages or losses.
- Planning & Logistics
- Create and manage detailed installation schedules, deployment plans, and project timelines.
- Coordinate manpower allocation, freelance crew bookings, vehicle planning, accommodation requirements, and logistics scheduling.
- Ensure all installation requirements are communicated clearly to Team Leaders, Coordinators, Warehouse Teams, and freelancers.
- Oversee all job logistics from warehouse preparation through to on-site execution and return.
- Ensure all required tools, access equipment, PPE, and specialist equipment are allocated correctly for each project.
- Leadership & Development
- Recruit, manage, mentor, and develop Installation Coordinators, Team Leaders, Riggers, and freelance crews.
- Lead by example in professionalism, accountability, safety, and work standards.
- Conduct regular training sessions and development days focused on installation techniques, safety standards, equipment handling, and operational best practice.
- Ensure all crews are fully briefed, uniformed, equipped, and operationally prepared before deployment.
- Manage staff performance, conduct, and accountability within the department.
- Delivery & QC
- Oversee on-site installations, live event operations, derigs, and venue reinstatements.
- Ensure all installations are delivered to the approved creative brief, operational plan, and company quality standards.
- Act as the senior operational lead on-site for complex or large-scale projects.
- Ensure all installation activity is completed safely, professionally, and within scheduled timeframes.
- Coordinate effectively with Project Managers and Account Managers regarding client communication, site changes, and operational adjustments.
- Ensure all installations are signed off appropriately before project completion.
- Health and Safety
- Take full ownership of Health & Safety compliance across all installation activity.
- Prepare and manage Risk Assessments, Method Statements, lifting plans, and all required H&S documentation.
- Ensure compliance with venue regulations, working at height requirements, fire safety standards, and operational legislation.
- Maintain records relating to PAT testing, safety certifications, training records, and compliance documentation.
- Conduct regular safety checks, toolbox talks, and on-site compliance inspections.
- Communication & Reporting
- Manage installation communication channels, including operational WhatsApp groups and internal coordination updates.
- Maintain accurate installation records, damage reports, job logs, and operational documentation.
- Ensure all project updates, operational issues, and installation feedback are communicated clearly across departments.
- Report operational challenges, staffing concerns, and resource requirements to senior management.
- Site Visits
- Attend site visits alongside Account Managers and Project Managers to assess logistics, access requirements, rigging feasibility, and installation planning.
- Conduct venue scanning, measurements, photography, and documentation where required.
- Maintain organised venue documentation and upload all relevant files to Google Drive and company systems.
- Lead post-event reviews and identify opportunities for operational improvement, efficiency gains, and service enhancement.
Requirements
- Proven experience within event installations, live events, experiential activations, exhibitions, or production environments.
- Strong leadership and people management experience.
- Excellent logistical planning and operational coordination skills.
- Strong understanding of Health & Safety legislation and safe working practices.
- Experience managing freelance crews, transport logistics, and large-scale installations.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Full UK driving licence preferred.
Full-time, office-based role in Denton, Manchester
Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:30
28 days annual leave inclusive of bank holidays
Additional annual leave entitlement awarded for each year of service from year two onwards
Free onsite parking
To apply for the Installation Manager position at Visual Architects, please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience to:
Locations
Production Manager in Cheshire, Warrington employer: Visual Architects
Visual Architects is an exceptional employer located in Denton, Manchester, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. With a strong emphasis on employee development, the company provides extensive training opportunities and encourages professional growth within the fast-paced events industry. Employees enjoy a supportive culture, competitive benefits including 28 days of annual leave, and the unique advantage of working on diverse and exciting projects that make a real impact.
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