Production / Fabrication Manager

We are on the hunt for a seasoned Production / Fabrication Manager with at least 15 years of hands-on experience in exhibition stand construction, set building, or custom fabrication. This role demands a leader who can bring together a team of highly skilled trades — including cabinet makers, carpenters, welders, and painters — while also managing state-of-the-art automated machinery and production workflows.

You'll be responsible for ensuring the workshop operates efficiently, projects are delivered on time and on budget, and the team meets the highest safety, quality, and productivity standards.

Discover what we do at Expo Centric:

Expo Centric Showreel

Behind the Scenes

Key Responsibilities:

• Workshop & Team Management
• Lead and oversee a multidisciplinary team of cabinet makers, carpenters, welders, painters, and machinists.
• Foster a strong workshop culture with a focus on quality, safety, and accountability.
• Drive training, development, and succession planning within the production team.
• Production Oversight
• Plan, coordinate, and manage fabrication projects from concept through to on-site delivery.
• Ensure efficient workflow and resource allocation across trades and machinery.
• Oversee setup, operation, and maintenance of state-of-the-art automated machinery (e.g., CNC routers, laser cutters, automated saws, and other fabrication tech).
• Troubleshoot and provide technical support when issues arise on the floor or onsite.
• Financial & Operational Control
• Prepare and manage budgets, monitor costs, and deliver projects profitably.
• Oversee procurement of materials, supplier negotiations, and stock management.
• Optimise scheduling of labour and machine time to maximise output.
• Collaboration & Client Delivery
• Work closely with project managers, designers, and account managers to ensure production aligns with client expectations.
• Maintain open communication with all stakeholders to pre-empt and resolve challenges.
• Guarantee that finished builds meet both technical specifications and aesthetic standards.

About you:

• Minimum 15 years' experience in set building, exhibition stand construction, or fabrication.
• Trade-qualified in cabinet making, carpentry, shopfitting, or similar (Cert III or higher preferred).
• Proven experience managing teams of tradespeople (cabinet makers, carpenters, welders, painters).
• Hands-on knowledge of automated fabrication machinery (CNC, laser cutters, etc.).
• Strong leadership and people management skills — able to run a workshop and field team with authority and respect.
• Excellent financial and commercial skills, with experience managing budgets, cost control, and profitability.
• High-level computer literacy (MS Office, project management software, CAD/CAM familiarity is a bonus).
• Strong communicator with problem-solving skills and the ability to perform under pressure.
• Track record of delivering large-scale, complex builds on time and within budget.

Why Join Expo Centric?

• Lead a highly skilled production team and cutting-edge workshop.
• Be part of iconic exhibitions and event builds across Australia.
• Competitive package with opportunities for growth.
• Work in a business that values craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence.

Ready to lead the workshop shaping the future of custom fabrication? Apply now with your CV and a short note about your experience leading teams and transforming design intent into high-quality, built outcomes.

We are committed to equal opportunity and encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, veterans, and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $120,000.00 – $150,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person