Print Production Manager

Job Description

As a manager within the company, you will be oversee the entire printing process of a variety of projects from conception to production to quality-control inspection. Knowledge of each unique item’s specification and the printing process required is a must. Every day brings a new opportunity to expand your skills in this exciting fast-paced industry.

You will also aid our prepress department in facilitating the print process utilizing network systems, all image processing systems with RIPs, digital preparation and output hardware and software used in the shop. It is essential that the Manager has a knowledge of current technologies and the ability to learn and embrace all new emerging technologies that are appropriate for our business and be willing to assist team members in learning new processes.

You will work with customers to identify appropriate promotional items, relevant to their business, and ensure art files meet the requirements for each item. Working directly with vendors will be necessary to ensure the final result meets the Press high standard of quality. The Manager will also need to monitor current supply of stock/substrates, account for price increases, and locate comparable alternatives when materials are unavailable.

Responsibilities

Maintaining Customer Relations:

• Client acknowledgement via email, phone, or walk-in
• Email monitoring; ensuring timely responses and order fulfillment
• Timely and accurate quote returns
• Creating work orders with appropriate notes/communication
• Actively communicate with clients to understand and deliver material to their satisfaction
• Oversee correspondence with clients and vendors/central facilities to ensure the fastest possible turnaround times
• Typeset copy changes and performs minor design & layout work as needed
• Responsible for executing variable data programs

Have a strong knowledge of Production & Equipment:

• Produce, correct, preflight and output files for both wide format and digital presses
• Scheduling & delegation of the work in production queue
• Understand imposition and printing processes/requirements
• Manage the operation and maintenance of digital presses and large format printers
• Contact and communicate effectively with equipment technicians when necessary

Manage Internal Shop Operations:

• Maintain accurate records of work performed and product generated, utilizing internal job tickets and tracking systems
• Work/Communicate effectively and respectfully within the established team atmosphere
• Ensure consistency of database information, file structure and archiving records
• Maintain professionalism; attire should be appropriate for production work, business casual
• Assist with troubleshooting and provide support to the Creative department as needed
• Maintains all digital file backup and archiving systems for the Shop
• Plan, analyze, and create visual solutions
• Assist in marketing strategies using email marketing and print projects
• Maintain Press branding standards and work with company proprietary software
• Stay up to date on changing trends in the graphic design & print industry

Qualifications

• Experience with managing a team of professionals in a print shop/retail type of business.
• College/university degree preferred; 2 or 4 year trade school acceptable
• 2+ year(s) experience in Windows networked environments, Mac experience is a plus
• Experience with Adobe Acrobat, InDesign, Illustrator, PhotoShop, Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Publisher
• Experience operating digital printing equipment & large format printing equipment
• Experience with personalized database printing (variable data printing)
• Experience with postal regulations and mailing services
• Demonstrate a competence on the Internet including World Wide Web and e-mail
• Excellent verbal and written communication & organizational skills
• Ability to work in a high-production, fast-paced environment
• Ability to work flexible hours and overtime as necessary
• Ability and willingness to learn new software and hardware technologies
• Excellent project and time management
• Creativity and problem solving skills
• Have an eye for detail
• Able to accurately discern colors
• Self-disciplined
• The ability to work independently
• Proficient in both MAC & PC

Brightpath Associates LLC