Head of Automation; Maternity Cover

Head of Automation (Maternity Cover) - London Head of Automation (Maternity Cover) Sonia Friedman Productions is seeking applications for Head of Automation (Maternity Cover) on 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 new play by Jack Thorne received its world premiere in London’s West End at the Palace Theatre in summer 2016.

The critically acclaimed production is the most awarded West End play in the history of the Olivier Awards, winning a record-breaking nine awards, including Best New Play and Best Director in 2017. The successful candidate will be joining at a crucial time for the production as we change from the two part version of the show to the reimagined one part production.

Your duties and responsibilities will be those normally expected of a Head of Automation (Maternity Cover) on a first-class West End production. This includes the management, maintenance and operation of all automation equipment and systems, leading the automation department, overseeing all automation operations, and ensuring that the production’s automation elements remain true to the original creative concept while maintaining the highest standards of safety, consistency and performance.

Experience in automation and performer flying systems within the theatre industry is essential, along with proven proficiency in operating, maintaining and troubleshooting automation control systems, particularly STS and FOYS. Candidates should demonstrate excellent leadership, interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to manage, motivate and develop the automation team. They should work calmly and efficiently under pressure, possess strong organisational and time-management skills, and collaborate effectively with all departments and associated personnel to ensure the production runs safely, efficiently and smoothly.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the automation department, ensuring compliance with all relevant safety procedures, maintaining accurate records and documentation, and liaising with company management, technical management and the creative team as required. Experience in a similar senior position on a large-scale production is essential. We are committed to a workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion.

We particularly welcome and encourage applications from those currently underrepresented in our workforce.

Start Date:

December 2026

Please Note:

All applicants must be able to commit to the full contract.

Job Location:

West End London. Salary:
Weekly salary as per the SOLT/BECTU agreement. Weekly

Hours:

8 shows per week plus maintenance and rehearsal calls. Final date to receive applications:
Friday 16th October 2026, 12 noon