Description
We are seeking an experienced Deputy Stage Manager to join our team at the Barbican Centre, a world-leading arts centre in the City of London. The successful candidate will assist with the day-to-day operation, supervision, and delivery of our programme in the Concert Hall and associated onsite and offsite locations.
The Role
The Deputy Stage Manager will act as Duty Stage Manager for rehearsals, performances, and events, taking operational responsibility from load-in to load-out. They will supervise and support Stage Assistants and casual staff, ensuring effective deployment and safe working practices.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as Duty Stage Manager for rehearsals, performances, and events
- Supervise and support Stage Assistants and casual staff
- Manage backstage and onstage activity during rehearsals, concerts, recordings, and commercial events
- Coordinate communication between Barbican teams, artists, visiting companies, management representatives, and broadcasters
- Lead and participate in pre-show operational and security briefings
- Oversee stage changes, orchestral and contemporary music set-ups, backline provision, and commercial event configurations
- Operate and supervise the safe use of automated stage systems, including lifts and risers
- Assist with rigging, show set-ups, and load-outs where required
- Support the management and maintenance of stage equipment, furniture, and materials
- Produce and maintain event documentation, including show reports, maintenance records, health and safety paperwork, and accident reports
- Undertake evacuation responsibilities and contribute to emergency planning and procedures
- Build positive relationships with colleagues, artists, promoters, associates, and external suppliers
- Contribute to educational and engagement activities delivered backstage
- Promote equality, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility
About You
- Significant experience working in a concert hall, multi-arts venue, or comparable live events environment
- Experience delivering complex performances, productions, and commercial events
- Experience supervising staff and casual workers in a busy operational setting
- Strong knowledge of orchestral, choir, band, and contemporary music stage set-ups
- Experience operating stage equipment and automated stage systems
- An understanding of sound, lighting, recording, video, and broadcast requirements
- Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Knowledge of health and safety legislation and best practice within live events environments
- Experience maintaining equipment and managing technical resources
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
- A current First Aid qualification or willingness to achieve one through Barbican-supported training
- The flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and overnight shifts as required
What We Offer
- Salary: £39,410 to £43,620 per year, inclusive of Inner London Weighting
- Contractual Hours: 35
- Basis: Full Time, 18-month Fixed Term Contract
- Workplace category: Workplace based
- Barbican Membership
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- 32 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service
- Access to Barbican Centre discounts, including offers at the Barbican Shop and hospitality outlets
- City Corporation staff benefits and discounts throughout the City of London
- Reciprocal entry to a number of galleries and museums across London
- Learning and development opportunities
- Employee volunteering scheme (up to 2 days per year)
- A vibrant, creative, and inclusive workplace at one of the world's leading arts centres