What are the responsibilities and job description for the ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, PERFORMING ARTS OPERATIONS & PRODUCTION position at Longwood Gardens?
As one of the great gardens of the world located just 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens is rooted in a steadfast mission of bringing joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Across our many departments, each and every staff member creates the magic that makes our Gardens distinctive. Our team of dynamic professionals is what sets us apart, and our spirit of legacy, innovation, and opportunity is what guides us. While beauty is our heart, our people are our soul.
Longwood Gardens seeks an Associate Director of Performing Arts, Operations & Production to support our growing programs. Reporting to the Director of Artistic Programming & Operations, this individual will oversee all production and technical operations, ensuring seamless execution of performances while maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and excellence.
- Directing the planning and execution of performances across multiple, temporary settings within the gardens.
- Developing and implementing production schedules, coordinating staffing levels, and managing all safety and training programs for the Production team.
- Overseeing lighting, sound, projection, video, and stage management, ensuring seamless integration and execution.
- Maintaining fiscal responsibility by planning and tracking operational costs, negotiating vendor contracts, and ensuring cost-effective production solutions.
- Ensuring all production team members meet safety compliance requirements, remain up to date on certifications, and adhere to industry standards for stage operations.
- Serving as the primary liaison between performing arts and other internal teams
- Identify potential risks in production planning and execution and develop proactive solutions to enhance safety and efficiency.
- Managing the Production Technician team.
- Reviewing artist riders, negotiating external vendor contracts, scheduling equipment deliveries, and overseeing all load-ins, stage set-ups, and maintenance needs.
We seek a strategic leader with extensive production experience who can manage complex logistics, develop operational plans, and lead a high-performing team. Responsibilities include:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Theater, Production, Management, or equivalent professional experience
- A minimum of 7 years of experience in performing arts leadership roles.
- Extensive experience in technical backstage operations, with expertise in sound design, sound engineering, or sound technology required.
- Knowledge of lighting, rigging, and technical direction is a plus.
- Proven leadership experience in managing production teams, setting clear direction, and delivering successful performances.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical and artistic concepts clearly in writing and verbally.
- Highly adaptable, able to manage multiple priorities and lead under pressure in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Experience in production management software and systems a plus.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
Longwood Gardens is committed to nurturing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates the complexities and differences of all living things. We welcome and respect diverse backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a more beautiful world, sparks innovation, and unites us.
