PURPOSE OF THE JOB
The Print Production Specialist is responsible for managing and executing all steps of the print production process—from estimating, printing, mailing, fulfilling and payment—for a variety of project and material types. This experienced production professional is responsible for planning and overseeing the production steps of direct mail campaigns, material fulfillment for sales initiatives as well as events of varying scope and scale. Responsible for managing all sized budgets, negotiating costs and rates, and maintaining strong vendor relationships for all aspects of production planning and execution of client marketing programs. This person works with account managers, internal teams, creative team, and vendors to ensure projects are resourced and executed in a way that guarantees quality and competitive pricing, while overseeing and executing a high volume of detailed projects.
This team member helps to bridge communications between stakeholders, creatives, and vendors to ensure streamlined and successful projects. This role requires the ability to negotiate timelines, prioritize activities, and balance resources and ensure expectations are met to the highest satisfaction and success. This position requires proven vendor management, communication, and collaboration skills.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
· 7 years production and project management experience at an agency or inhouse creative services organization
· High-School Diploma or GED in general field of study (Applies to All Levels)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
· 10 year(s) of experience in Marketing
· 3 year(s) of experience in working with a Creative Team
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
· Gather project requirements and manage all aspects of production on behalf of the company and the client, working with vendors on delivery timetables and maintaining an updated status of assigned projects.
· Provide technical input and advice on projects as required to achieve efficiency and high quality
· Execute projects within contract-specified timelines, according to budget requirements and quality standards.
· Build relationships and communication channels with clients to ensure smooth workflow and handoffs.
· Liaise between internal and external stakeholders, agencies, and suppliers to ensure quality and on-time, on-budget delivery.
· Define, refine, and maintain production processes that support on-target delivery and compliance with business processes.
· Identify and develop programmatic solutions, which are both beneficial and economical for the client and the company
· Provide high-quality customer service, communicating to clients with appropriate and relevant status updates.
· Assist Account Managers in compiling account and project updates for key presentations as directed.
· Escalate production issues immediately to management.
· Engage in a consultative partnership with the client to improve achievement of marketing goals on assigned projects.
· Attend press checks with or without client and ensure quality standards are met
· Own and resolve client concerns across the production and fulfillment process
· Develop full detail spec sheets, negotiate costs and terms for competitive bid process
· Award bid to selected vendor per purchasing guidelines that align with the company’s procedures
· Input all project specifications and relevant data into a project management system, maintaining key data points in the system, including customer quotes, purchase orders, and invoices.
· Manage the procurement process for the production and printing executed by Creative Services, including creating POs, receiving and approving invoices as well as resolving any invoice discrepancies
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES
Required Job Skills
· 10+ years of product category production experience. Additional inventory management a plus.
· Deep understanding of the creative process and creative skill set
· Advanced knowledge of job management software, WorkFront ideal (Workamajig, Basecamp, etc.)
· Experience with vendor negotiations and project management.
Required Professional Competencies
· Ability to prioritize in a complex, fast-paced environment
· Highly organized, resourceful and accountable individual
· Ability to work independently with a drive to continually hit goals and succeed.
Required Leadership Experience and Competencies
· Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple, competing priorities simultaneously
· Proven track record of creating workflows, communication processes, and data tracking
PREFERRED COMPETENCIES
Preferred Job Skills
· Advanced knowledge about printing processes ex: paper, print presses, inks, etc.
· Deep understanding, knowledge and experience with the USPS and postal regulations
Preferred Professional Competencies
· Client communication and problem-solving experience with a solution-oriented mindset.
Preferred Leadership Experience and Competencies
· Manage the operations of the project management system, data and designers and writers to deliver on time creative materials
Job Type: Contract
Pay: $35.00 - $46.00 per hour
Schedule:
Experience:
- print production process: 10 years (Required)
- Project management: 5 years (Preferred)
- marketing: 10 years (Preferred)
- job management software, WorkFront: 3 years (Preferred)
- managing all sized budgets, negotiating costs and rates: 4 years (Preferred)
- Vendor management: 6 years (Preferred)
Work Location: Remote