Production Manager- Freelancer

We are seeking an experienced Freelance Production Manager for a fixed-term contract based in Abu Dhabi from October to December 2026, with exact dates to be confirmed.

The Production Manager will be appointed to assist with the planning, coordination and delivery of one specific live event project. Acting as the key link between the client, project management, creative teams, internal departments and appointed suppliers, the role will cover scheduling, technical planning, budgeting, procurement, production documentation and on-site delivery.

The successful candidate will take ownership of the project from planning through to completion, ensuring it is delivered safely, accurately, on schedule and within budget while maintaining Evolution’s standards for production quality, client service and operational excellence.

• Manage the assigned project from the initial briefing and concept-development stages through production, installation, live delivery, dismantling and project closure.
• Prepare and maintain a detailed project schedule covering designs, approvals, procurement, fabrication, technical production, logistics and on-site delivery.
• Coordinate with third party suppliers and teams to develop an integrated, practical and cost-effective production solution.
• Review the project brief and support the development of the creative concept, mood boards, guest journey, proposal and presentation documents.
• Assess materials, fabrication methods, temporary structures and technical requirements, including audio, lighting, video, staging and rigging.
• Prepare and manage the project budget, quotations and cost estimates while monitoring expenditure, profitability and changes to the agreed scope.
• Act as a key client contact, establishing clear expectations and maintaining effective communication throughout the planning and delivery process.
• Source, brief and manage third-party suppliers, including preparing scopes of work, reviewing quotations, negotiating costs and monitoring deliverables.
• Lead internal coordination and ensure that all project teams and suppliers are fully briefed on their responsibilities, deadlines and quality expectations.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, identify potential risks and ensure compliance with approved specifications, venue regulations and health and safety requirements.

• Based in Abu Dhabi or able to commute easily to the project site.
• Professional fluency in English, written and spoken.
• Proven experience as a Production Manager, Project Manager or in a similar role within live events, experiential production, exhibitions or temporary event environments.
• Strong knowledge of event production processes, including scenic fabrication, technical production, temporary structures, furniture, branding and site operations.
• Practical understanding of production materials, fabrication methods, structural considerations and temporary installations.
• Working knowledge of audio, lighting, video, staging and rigging requirements, with the ability to coordinate effectively with technical specialists.
• Strong project scheduling, budgeting, cost estimation, supplier management and commercial negotiation skills.
• Excellent client-servicing, communication and leadership skills, with the ability to coordinate internal teams and third-party suppliers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, with the ability to navigate, measure and export information from Sketch Up and AutoCAD files.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage changing requirements and respond effectively to last-minute adjustments and tight project deadlines.
• Availability for the full freelance contract period from October to December 2026, with exact dates to be confirmed.
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