Technical Manager - Reading Arts

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.

You’ll ensure seamless technical operations across a diverse programme, from concerts and theatrical productions to conferences, exhibitions, and festivals. You will also lead on the technical design of the Studio Theatre project, our new venue due to open Spring 2027.

We seek the best talent from the widest pool of people as diversity and inclusion is the key to our success. 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

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.

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• 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.

This role will require flexibility, including some evening, weekend, and bank holiday working.

You’ll bring excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders and build strong, positive relationships. Most importantly, you’ll have a genuine passion for supporting the personal development and wellbeing of every individual you work with.

You’ll be part of a team that relies on each individual to play their part to the best of their ability. As well as the colleagues that you work closely with every day, you’ll also be part of Team Reading, playing your personal part in making Reading a successful and vibrant place.

Our vision is to ensure that Reading realises its potential as a great place to live, work and play, and that everyone shares the benefits of this success. Our values and behaviours guide how we will achieve this:
Work Together as one team - work collaboratively, with each other and with our partners, and demonstrate the Team Reading values in everything we do
Drive Efficiency - show initiative, be adaptable to change and put forward ideas to help improve delivery and efficiency. Take responsibility for our own learning and development and for reaching our potential
Be Ambitious - be demanding of our own performance – striving to be even better – and be prepared to engage with and challenge leaders in a constructive and positive way
Make a Difference to Reading - maintain the highest levels of customer service and be flexible and willing to provide the services needed at the time they are needed

Our 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