Location
West End, London

Hours
8 shows per week plus maintenance and rehearsal calls

Salary
Weekly salary as per the SOLT/BECTU agreement

Contract Type
A year contract with the possibility to extend

Start Date
September 2026

About the Role
Sonia Friedman Productions is seeking a Head of Automation (Maternity Cover) for the London production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, this acclaimed play premiered in London’s West End at the Palace Theatre in summer 2016 and is the most awarded West End play in Olivier Awards history, winning nine awards including Best New Play and Best Director in 2017.

The successful candidate will join at a pivotal moment as the production transitions from the two-part version to the reimagined one-part production. Responsibilities include managing, maintaining, and operating all automation equipment and systems, leading the automation department, overseeing all automation operations, and ensuring the automation elements remain true to the original creative concept while upholding the highest standards of safety, consistency, and performance.

This role requires close collaboration with company management, technical management, and the creative team to ensure the production runs safely, efficiently, and smoothly. The candidate must be able to commit to the full contract duration.

Experience
Essential experience in automation and performer flying systems within the theatre industry. Proven proficiency in operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting automation control systems, particularly STS and FOYS. Experience in a similar senior position on a large-scale production is required.

About you
Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills. Ability to manage, motivate, and develop the automation team. Calm and efficient under pressure with strong organisational and time-management skills. Collaborative approach to working with all departments and personnel. Commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards and accurate documentation.

Qualifications
Not explicitly stated, but relevant technical knowledge and theatre automation expertise are implied. A commitment to diversity and inclusion is valued, with encouragement for applications from underrepresented groups.