Production Manager

Company DescriptionBased in Chicago, iAE is a team of 30 full-time employees producing over 400 shows annually across 90 North American cities. We produce the Martha's Vineyard Concert Series and Beach Road Weekend Music Festival. iAE brings audiences the most exciting, critically successful live entertainment across North America — consistently delivering ticket buyers to our theater and arena partners everywhere.Role DescriptionThis is a full-time, on-site role located in Chicago, IL. The Production Manager will oversee all aspects of production for live events, including planning, coordinating, and executing shows to ensure smooth operations.Lead the full advance with venues, tour managers, and vendors; drive clear timelines, confirm technical needs, and keep all stakeholders aligned.Model production budgets from tech specs and site plans; track actuals, control costs, and flag risks early.Identify production kills/holds/sightline limitations before onsale and advise on seating maps and capacities.Source, bid, and negotiate third-party services (backline, labor, audio, lighting, video, freight, staging, power, catering, transportation), leveraging iAE’s national scale.Build and distribute advance packets, schedules, run-of-show, and call sheets; keep documentation current and accessible.Show-day lead (in-person or remote): manage load-in/out, cue safety protocols, call adjustments in real time, and protect the budget and timeline.Oversee prompt payments; reconcile invoices, secure approvals, and close shows.File post-event reports and maintain digital records (final advances, invoices, payments).Qualifications5+ years in live event production management with a tour, venue, or promoter.Fluency reading rigging plots, stage plots, lighting/video plots, and power distro.Demonstrated strength in budgeting, vendor negotiation, and labor management.Calm, decisive leadership on show days; able to make clear calls with incomplete info.Excellent written and verbal communication; highly organized and deadline driven.Ability to manage multiple shows concurrently across different markets.Tech skills: Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint); familiarity with CAD/Vectorworks a plus.Comfortable working remotely and on site in moderate-to-loud environments; able to lift 50 lbs and be on your feet for extended periods.Travel-ready with valid driver’s license/passport; nights/weekends/holidays as needed.