Job Objective: 

This position is accountable for the end-to-end leadership and execution of all technical, audio & visual aspects of live, virtual and hybrid event production, from concept and development through execution, designed to strategically drive business results for Disney Parks, Experiences & Consumer Products. This hands-on manager role is responsible for overseeing all technical
production staff and events while performing a lead technical producer role as needed for certain high-profile events. 

General description: 

The ideal Manager, Technical Production is an expert in their field, and a positive, skilled and strong leader of the Technical Production team for a very high volume of events, ensuring all aspects of live production success. This role is part of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, a segment of the Walt Disney Company that will not only support various DPEP Segment programs but also many key business driving initiatives in partnership with internal partners across the enterprise. 

Responsibilities:

• Accountable for technical/audio/video leadership for live, virtual and hybrid event production for consumer, business-to-business and internal events, including large-scale showcases, live media launches, consumer activations and more.

• Lead the Technical Production team in terms of short/long-term team planning, staffing against projects, appropriate budgeting of events and equipment, and general oversight and responsibility of the team’s workflow, day-to-day task achievement and success.

• The Manager, Technical Production is the expert in Technical Production, highly skilled and knowledgeable in physical and virtual event platforms and execution, lighting and audio for stage, audio application, technical event logistics, set concept and stage management/design, budget/timeline creation, show flow, equipment, space/setup logistics, vendor hiring, permitting, rigging, management and any other relevant AV needs.

• Strategize and succinctly communicate most effective Technical Production plans to senior leadership for buy-in, ensuring business goals are met within budget and timeline.

• The Manager, Technical Production will be the expert in leading a team member to, or consulting with and working alongside Special Events Managers, clients and stakeholders and charged with creating the technical vision of the event, as well as develop and design all the technical aspects of the show.

• The Manager, Technical Production will supervise the Technical Production team, third party technicians, vendors, stagehands and other technical teams, where applicable.

• Review and assess incoming request inquiries from CPGP and Segment partners, identifying best way forward with planning, staffing and associated costs.

• Drive Technical Production support and act as primary point of contact for senior-level executives such as the DPEP Chairman and CPGP President, and their staff for events such as global EBUs and keynote presentations. Research, contract and direct best-in-class vendors, technology partners and platforms to ensure The Walt Disney Company is ahead of the curve with in-person and virtual event technology trends.

• Creative thinker, solution driven, stays current with industry technology and trends, can speak the geek (translate complex technology into layman’s terms) and flexibility to support the greater Creative Services organization.

• Must be able to communicate clearly and concisely with all levels of management and have good executive presence.

Additional Skills:

• Strong understanding of lighting, cinematography and video production.

• Skilled leader and excellent communicator.

• Able to work with top leadership as well as internal and external teams to achieve the highest degree of show production value at the required budgeted costs.

• Able to lead a team and work within a collaborative environment.

• Able to develop strong and trusting partnerships with all levels of the organization including DPEP & CPGP leaders, CPGP Special Events, as well as other internal and external partners/vendors.

• Able to be a self-starter and work independently, flexible, adaptable to change.

• High level of organizational skills necessary to balance multiple projects with short and long timelines and cycles.

• Affinity for the Disney brand.

• Contracting and managing suppliers/vendors - vendor RFPs, working with Sourcing, if required

• Manages inventory of technical assets, keeps abreast of fast-changing and emerging technology and recommends technical equipment investments through ROI and other justifications. 

Requirements:

• A proven and successful leader accountable for leading a team who supports a very high volume of events; varied in size, scope and complexity.

• BA or equivalent in Theater Tech, Video Production and Engineering, Audio Design and Editing as well as a strong background in production management. MBA is a plus.

• Experience managing internal staff members, event staff and vendors.

• Extremely self-directed individual who is comfortable with a significant level of prioritization, decision-making and discretion.

• Must have core knowledge and experience in theatrical technologies and the disciplines of stagecraft.

• Minimum of 8-10+ years of experience with management of major shows and events, conventions and large corporate conferences.

• Must have very strong communications skills (both written and verbal)

• Strong organization skills.

• Strong personal presence and an understanding of how to work with executives, partners and colleagues.

• Ability to work flexible work hours, including nights and weekends

• Ability to lift 50lbs, and on occasion work at heights and in tight places

• Flexibility for travel.

• Disney experience a plus.