Workshop Manager

Job description

Workshop Manager

Magic Number is an award-winning experiential marketing, brand partnerships, and production agency delivering large-scale campaigns across festivals, live events, retail environments, and pop-up activations.

Operating from our 32,000 sq ft production facility, The Hub, in Bristol, we bring together creative strategy, design, fabrication, logistics, and on-site delivery to create unforgettable brand experiences for some of the world's leading brands.

As we continue to grow, we're looking for an experienced Workshop Manager to lead our fabrication team and help elevate our in-house production capabilities.

The Role

We're seeking a highly skilled, hands-on maker and leader with a passion for fabrication, craftsmanship, and team development.

As Workshop Manager, you will play a key role in the successful delivery of projects, leading workshop operations, supporting the fabrication team, and maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced production environment, enjoys solving technical challenges, and can inspire others through strong leadership and a positive, proactive approach. Key ResponsibilitiesWorkshop Leadership & Team DevelopmentLead, mentor, and support a team of fabricators, encouraging professional development and skills growth.Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-performing workshop culture.Set and maintain exceptional standards of workmanship, quality, and attention to detail.Provide hands-on technical guidance and support across a range of fabrication projects.Production & Project DeliveryWork closely with the Production Manager to plan and deliver projects safely, efficiently, and on schedule.Assist in developing and implementing workshop systems, processes, and best practices.Support project planning by reviewing fabrication requirements and identifying the most effective build methods.Ensure projects are delivered in line with design intent, client expectations, budgets, and deadlines.Maintain oversight of multiple concurrent projects and production schedules.Communication & CollaborationCollaborate with Project Managers and Campaign Managers to ensure production teams have the information, drawings, and resources needed to meet deadlines.Communicate production updates, challenges, and changes effectively across departments.Coordinate material procurement and project-specific orders alongside the Production Manager.Manage CNC workflow and ensure machine output aligns with production priorities.Workshop Operations & Quality ControlPromote and maintain a strong culture of quality control throughout the workshop.Ensure all machinery, tools, and equipment are operated safely and maintained appropriately.Take ownership of workshop organisation, housekeeping, and Health & Safety standards.Monitor fabrication hours and productivity against project budgets and timelines.Support installation and de-rig activities when requiredEssential Skills & Experience3-5 years' experience in a workshop management, fabrication, set-build, exhibition, events, or technical production environment.Strong understanding of fabrication techniques, materials, manufacturing processes, and construction methods.Demonstrable leadership experience with the ability to motivate, develop, and manage teams.Strong organisational and project management skills.Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality.Practical problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset.Experience operating a variety of workshop machinery and equipment safely.Desirable Skills & ExperienceExperience within experiential marketing, events, festivals, exhibitions, retail activations, or similar creative production sectors.Relevant technical or trade qualifications.