Senior Technical Manager

ABOUT THE NATIONAL CENTRE FOR CIRCUS ARTS

The National Centre for Circus Arts is a registered charity and an independent Higher Education provider registered with the Office for Students, and is one of Europe’s leading providers of circus arts training.

For the past 30 years, we have provided emerging and professional circus artists, directors and choreographers access to vital space and support to train, experiment and share ideas.

Our diverse range of work includes BA degree-level education in Circus Arts which is supported at either side by a structured training programme for under-18s and professional development opportunities for aspiring and established performers.

Adults and young people can enjoy recreational classes and occasional performances. Our national role increasingly sees us supporting and mentoring circus artists and organisations nationwide as we seek to develop and mature our remarkable art form. We also run high-profile corporate events and hires to further increase our revenue.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This senior role leads technical operations at the Centre, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality delivery across all activities.

It includes managing both in-house and contract specialists, overseeing all rigging and production elements, and leading on technical health and safety.

Key responsibilities include strategic planning, budget management, policy development, and cross-departmental collaboration.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE ROLE

(Please read the full list of responsibilities attached in the JD)

• Provide vision and direction for the Technical Department, driving innovation and operational excellence.
• Work with the Chief Operating Officer and Head of Operations to plan for future infrastructure and technical needs.
• Represent the Technical Department in internal and external planning meetings, partnerships, and industry events.
• Work with the Head of Operations to liaise with professional consultants (e.g., engineers, architects, quantity surveyors) on rigging and lighting infrastructure projects, capital improvements, and the development of safe and efficient technical systems.

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS

Experience

• Experience in budget management and contracting.
• Experience with Technical Standards and applying them to a venue,
• Significant professional experience in a senior technical or production role within theatre, circus, live performance, or related settings.
• Demonstrable experience managing teams, technical equipment, and health & safety protocols.
• Working with senior management in an arts organisation or similar.
• Experience working with production managers, external contractors, and consultants
• Experience of overseeing large-scale events or productions, ideally including education or multi-use arts spaces.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of rigging, lifting operations, and working at height in line with LOLER and PUWER regulations.
• Excellent understanding of temporary electrical systems, DMX control, lighting, AV, and sound.
• Skilled in IT and industry-standard software including Microsoft Office, AutoCAD and QLab.
• Strong communication, leadership and project management skills, with the ability to mentor others.
• Able to create and manage risk assessments, budgets, schedules, and equipment registers.

Personal Attributes

• A hands-on and positive team leader with a proactive, solution-focused mindset.
• Committed to safe working practices and professional development.
• Strong organisational and planning skills with an eye for detail.
• An understanding of and commitment to equal opportunities and inclusive practice.
• Interest in the circus arts, performance, or education sectors.

Location: On-site, with flexibility as needed

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (evenings and weekends required around Event and Production times)

To view the full job description, please click here – > National Centre for Circus Arts – Senior Technical Manager – JD