Production Management Services

The appointed supplier will work closely with Liverpool Biennial’s Programme Team, which is responsible for the development and delivery of the Biennial festival, year-round commissions, publications and public programme activity.

The Programme Team brings together colleagues working across Programme, Learning and Front of House and collaborates closely with artists, curators, venue partners, contractors and communities to realise ambitious artistic projects across Liverpool and beyond.

As a small and collaborative organisation, Liverpool Biennial works closely with a wide range of local, national and international partners. The successful supplier will be expected to work as an integrated member of the wider project team, collaborating closely with Liverpool Biennial staff, artists, curators, venue partners and external stakeholders throughout the planning, delivery and deinstallation phases of the festival.

The contract will initially be managed by the Head of Programme & Partnerships. Responsibility for the contract will transfer to the Director of Programme & Partnerships in October 2026.

Scope of Works

The appointed supplier will provide production management services to support the planning, delivery, maintenance and deinstallation of Liverpool Biennial 2027. Working closely with Liverpool Biennial staff, artists, curators, venue partners and contractors, the supplier will oversee the technical, operational and health and safety aspects of the festival programme.

The successful supplier will be expected to provide strategic advice, project management and practical delivery support across multiple venues and projects simultaneously.

Works will include, but are not limited to:

Exhibition Planning and Artwork Production

• Providing production management support across all aspects of Liverpool Biennial 2027, including new commissions, artwork loans, public realm installations, performances and events.
• Advising Liverpool Biennial, artists and curators on the feasibility, fabrication and installation of artworks and exhibitions.
• Developing technical solutions for gallery, public realm and found venue installations.
• Supporting project planning, scheduling and delivery across multiple sites.
• Supporting the development and management of production budgets.
• Coordinating production requirements with venue partners, artists and other stakeholders.
• Procuring, appointing and managing specialist contractors and suppliers, including fabricators, technicians, engineers, art handlers and AV providers.
• Advising on sustainable and accessible approaches to production and delivery.

Health and Safety

• Leading on health and safety planning for production and installation activity.
• Preparing and reviewing risk assessments, method statements and associated documentation.
• Ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, regulations and industry best practice.
• Advising on safe working practices across gallery, public realm and non-traditional venues.
• Supporting licensing, permissions and statutory approvals where required.

Installation and Deinstallation

• Planning and coordinating installation and deinstallation activity across all Biennial venues.
• Managing technical and AV requirements for exhibitions, performances and events.
• Coordinating contractors, technicians and specialist suppliers.
• Supervising on-site activity and ensuring safe systems of work are maintained.
• Troubleshooting technical and operational challenges throughout delivery.

Exhibition Maintenance and Operations

• Supporting the development of maintenance plans for commissioned and loaned artworks.
• Advising on operational requirements during the exhibition period.
• Supporting training and briefing of Liverpool Biennial staff and contractors where required.
• Monitoring technical installations and supporting ongoing maintenance throughout the festival.

General Project Management

• Attending planning meetings, site visits and production workshops.
• Maintaining project schedules and production documentation.
• Liaising with artists, artist representatives, lenders, venue partners and other stakeholders.
• Working in accordance with Liverpool Biennial’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policies, Sustainability Policy and other organisational policies.

Deadline to apply: Sunday 19 July 2026, 11.59pm

Find out more about the role via the tender document below