Director of Production
Purpose
The Director of Production is responsible for overseeing all operational lifecycles of the exhibition lifecycle. They represent the following:
- Strong Implementer of procedure and demonstrate full accountability for the operations of their department.
- Strong leader with the ability to influence others.
- Tradeshow Production knowledge and relevant industry experience.
- Detail orientedProcess Oriented and Organized
Their responsibilities include: estimating, detailing, assembly, logistics, and warehouse operations for Rockway Exhibits. This role oversees all operational teams responsible for the efficient production of custom tradeshow booths, displays, and event-marketing environments to include maintaining a safe, organized, and high-performing warehouse. The Director will lead cross-functional teams, ensure deadlines are met for client events, and uphold Rockway's standards for quality craftsmanship and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Estimates and Detailing Oversight
- Leads the Project Management team that are assigned projects from approval through delivery.
- Develop the standard practice for managing timelines, budgets, and production schedules to ensure on-time, on-budget performance.
- Coordinate the priorities across estimating, production, graphics, logistics, and on-site shipping teams.
- Oversee the policies for the procurement of materials, rental components, and work closely with on-site supervisors of show services (electrical, rigging, freight, drayage, etc.).
- Track project progress, risks, and changes-communicating updates to stakeholders and adjusting plans as needed.
Production and Fabrication Oversight
- Lead and oversee daily shop operations, including fabrication, assembly, finishing, and pre-builds.
- Plan and prioritize production schedules to ensure all projects meet deadlines.
- Help support the translation of build drawings and project plans into actionable production tasks.
- Maintain strict quality control procedures throughout the fabrication process.
Warehouse and Inventory Management
- Set standards for warehouse organization, layout, equipment, and storage systems.
- Responsible for the team handling all inbound and outbound materials, supplies, and client-owned assets.
- Ensure accurate inventory tracking for rental items, custom assets, and raw materials.
- Manage the warehouse team that supervises the pull & pack processes for upcoming shows and events.
Logistics & Event Readiness
- Drive continuous improvement for all shipping, receiving, freight logistics, and show-site delivery procedures.
- Oversee SOPs and best practice for freight, post-show inspection, and asset receiving.
- Lead the team of project managers to align logistics with show schedules and requirements.
Team Leadership & Staffing
- Lead and supervise salaried level staff.
- Train team members on proper fabrication methods, safety practices, and SOPs.
- Use best practice on capacity analysis and production volume to support event deadlines.
- Conduct performance evaluations and promote a collaborative, high-output culture.
Safety & Facility Management
- Own and execute the company Safety Audit Tracker
- Spearhead the company Safety Team.
- Enforce OSHA standards, PPE use, and company safety protocols.
- Ensure equipment (forklifts, tools, machinery) is maintained and inspected regularly.
- Drive the operational standards for a clean, organized, and hazard-free facility.
Process & Cost Optimization
- Evaluate and implement best practices from estimating to design that help leverage on cost, inventory and maximum profit margins.
- Monitor job costs, labor hours, and material usage to stay within budget.
- Identify and implement process improvements for production efficiency.
- Reduce waste, rework, and operational bottlenecks through continuous improvement.
- Work cross-departmentally to streamline handoffs between production, warehouse, and account teams.
Quality Assurance & Client Experience Support
- Develop and enforce final inspections on all booth builds before shipment.
- Drive a team and culture where all assets arrive on show site complete, clean, and event-ready.
- Troubleshoot production or logistics issues that could impact show success.
Associated KPIs
- On-Time Production Completion Rate
- Estimated Hours vs. Actual Completion Hours
- Safety Metric (TRIR, Near Miss)
- Machine Shop Utilization Rate
- Rework Rate
- Inventory Accuracy
- Warehouse Organization Score
- Freight Cost Variance
- On Time Shipping Rate
- Overtime Tracking, Absenteeism Tracking, Training Completion
- PPE Compliance Score
- Capacity Management (% Full)
- Budget Adherence Performance
- Cost Savings Initiatives
- Process Improvement Projects
Qualifications
Required
- 5+ years of experience in production, fabrication, warehouse management, or tradeshow/event services.
- Experience in custom fabrication, scenic construction, woodworking, metalworking, or related fields preferred.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- Understanding of tradeshow logistics, show service requirements, and event timelines.
- Proficiency with inventory management systems and basic project management tools.
- Ability to read and interpret build drawings and production plans.
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
Physical and Work Requirements
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. and move materials or equipment as needed.
- Comfortable working in a shop/warehouse environment using hand and power tools.
- Availability for occasional extended hours, weekend work, or travel during peak event seasons.
Personal Attributes
- Solution-oriented mindset with strong problem-solving capabilities.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented.
- Positive, client-centric attitude under tight deadlines.
- Team player who thrives in a collaborative environment.
- Dependable, accountable, and proactive.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic, innovative environment.
- A culture built on creativity, craftsmanship, and teamwork.
- The chance to work with high-profile brands and create unforgettable event experiences.