Description
At theprintspace, we’re not just the world leaders in fine art and photographic printing — we’re rewriting the rules of art commerce. For nearly two decades, we’ve helped define the gold standard in print and presentation for world-leading artists, galleries, and institutions, combining obsessive craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
We’re now looking for an exceptional Finishing Department Manager to lead the operations of our London finishing studio — someone who brings precision, authority, calm leadership, and craft pride in equal measure.
Why this role is unique
Based in our state-of-the-art Shoreditch studio (the beating heart of London’s creative community), this role sits at the intersection of museum-grade finishing, workflow excellence, and hands-on leadership.
You will:
Lead the team responsible for framing, mounting, and high-end finishing, producing work that meets gallery and museum presentation standards
Own the finishing department’s performance — from quality control and workflow efficiency to delivery timelines and cost awareness
Help shape how theprintspace shows up in the world by ensuring every finished piece reflects our reputation for precision, excellence, and consistency
This is a high-impact, high-responsibility role. You are the ultimate custodian of finishing quality — the person who ensures every artwork leaves our studio looking flawless, intentional, and world-class.
What you'll do
Finishing Operations Leadership
Lead and coordinate our Framing & Mounting teams to hit production goals with consistency and pride
Plan workloads, manage SLAs, and keep production moving efficiently — even in peak periods
Oversee the integration of CNC cutting alongside traditional finishing methods
Maintain quality control throughout production to ensure every piece meets theprintspace standard
Monitor stock, materials, and equipment maintenance to minimise downtime, waste, and risk
Run regular team briefings and ensure strong collaboration across departments
Manage freelancers and flexible schedules when demand increases
Maintain a clean, organised, and safe workspace where craftsmanship can thrive
Quality & Technical Oversight
Uphold museum-grade standards across framing, mounting, and advanced finishing (Diasec, acrylic, aluminium, CNC-routed substrates)
Supervise precision cutting and finishing processes to ensure defect-free results
Introduce and refine best practices that improve both efficiency and craftsmanship
Oversee maintenance schedules for CNC and mounting equipment to keep output stable and dependable
Framing & Hands-On Finishing (Player–Manager Role)
Produce bespoke and ready-made frames to exact specifications, consistently meeting gallery and client standards
Cut and prepare mouldings, mountboard, glass, and backing materials with speed, accuracy, and care
Use a CNC cutter to prepare and finish framing components and materials where required
Assemble frames with clean joins, accurate alignment, and a flawless finish — no compromises
Install fixings, hanging systems, and fittings suitable for gallery display and client presentation
Inspect finished framed works for presentation, cleanliness, and alignment prior to QC sign-off
Work confidently with production and workflow software to track jobs, deadlines, SLAs, and department priorities
Collaborate closely with mounting, printing, and dispatch teams to keep workflow smooth, fast, and organised
Team Development & Culture
Coach and train staff in advanced finishing and CNC workflows
Balance scheduling, performance, and flexibility while protecting team wellbeing
Foster a culture built on precision, pride, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Ensure full compliance with health and safety standards — no shortcuts, ever
At theprintspace, we believe in the meritocracy of ideas and the strength of diverse voices. If you’re passionate about craft, precision, leadership, and helping deliver museum-grade work at scale — we’d love to hear from you.
Ref: a4eb