Event Production Manager

Diversity matters

We are building a brand that represents the people of the world. It's what you do that counts, and we are always looking to expand perspectives and voices to shape our future.

We see you, we celebrate you, we want you!

Who we are

You might know us as the inventors of the bath bomb, but there's more to this great-smelling, partly employee-owned, family-run company than pioneering cosmetics. We believe our business should put more back into the world than it takes and demonstrate that capitalism can be a force for good.

The Living Wage Foundation's statement 'a hard day's work deserves a fair day's pay' is one that we are proud to commit to in the UK. As an accredited Living Wage employer, we put our people first and fight cruel practices like animal testing, promote regeneration, and show that it is what's inside that counts - whether that's an ingredient in a product, or the minerals in a smartphone.

Please note: We may close this vacancy early if we receive an overwhelming response or our business requirements change.

The Role

As an Events Production Manager, you will lead the production requirements for all Lush events, from concept to completion. Working closely with internal teams and external suppliers, you'll ensure the smooth delivery of a wide range of event formats, including pop-ups, in-store activations, internal events, virtual events, and at times window installations. You will manage timelines, budgets, and quality control, collaborating with the Senior Creative Lead, Event Production Coordinator, and Event Operations Manager to deliver successful and sustainable experiences.

You'll optimise the reuse of existing event assets to enhance sustainability and cost efficiency, while also building strong relationships with external suppliers. Your expertise in various production methods and your network of vendors will help bring Lush's creative visions to life.

You'll be responsible for managing production logistics and on-site crews, overseeing technical requirements, and ensuring all projects meet Lush's standards for sustainability and brand consistency. Travel nationally and some international travel may be required, along with site visits and regular attendance to the Events Storage facility located in Poole.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead production requirements for Lush events, working with internal teams and external suppliers to deliver innovative, sustainable experiences.
2. Maximise the reuse of existing event inventory to reduce costs and minimise storage footprint.
3. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating service agreements and ensuring delivery from brief to completion.
4. Collaborate with the Senior Experiential Designer and Production Coordinator to refine design documentation for suppliers, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
5. Review 3D designs and CAD plans to identify potential risks and ensure correct interpretation as well as the creation of basic plans and schematics as needed.
6. Manage technical elements from briefing to delivery, ensuring all necessary documentation (RAMS, insurance, etc.) is completed accurately.
7. Oversee project timelines, budgets, and on-site logistics, and conduct full cost reconciliations post-event to help inform future projects.
8. Coordinate with the Event Operations Manager to ensure all broader logistical and operational needs are met for successful event delivery.
9. Take responsibility for on-site personnel during event instals and de-rigs, undertaking well considered problem solving and adherence to safety protocols.
10. Ensure alignment with Lush's brand identity and sustainability goals, staying informed on prohibited and preferred materials.
11. Provide progress updates to the Events Delivery Manager, escalating risks related to delivery, budget, or project scope as necessary.

General Responsibilities

1. Support the professional development of team members, particularly the Production Coordinator, and foster a collaborative team environment.
2. Contribute to the ongoing review and improvement of production processes, striving for greater efficiency within the Lush ecosystem.
3. Stay up to date with industry trends and innovations to help inform future project strategies.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

1. Experience in Event Production, Project Management, or Technical Management, ideally within a highly commercial environment.
2. Proven organisational, scheduling, and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
3. Strong leadership qualities, with the ability to guide and support a team with varying levels of experience.
4. Willingness and ability to travel across the UK and internationally, with flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required.
5. Advanced interpersonal and negotiation skills for liaising with internal teams and managing external contractors and suppliers.
6. Technical expertise, including experience with build methods, reviewing technical drawings, and managing risk assessments.
7. Comfortable working under pressure and making effective decisions in real time.

Additional Information

Travel and accommodation expenses are covered for work-related trips, and you'll need to ensure you have business driver insurance to claim mileage. Flexibility in working hours is required due to the nature of the projects.