Chicago Casting Calls & Acting Auditions

Are you an experienced Multicultural Creative Director who developed a career in design?  Are you passionate about ideation and powerful visuals that bring ideas to life?  Do you have experience in the LatinX Market?  If you’re ready to take on a leadership role and have a go-getter attitude, we want you on our team!

Main Responsibilities:

• Lead the creative direction and execution of powerful ideas, including Multicultural initiatives, online such as social media campaigns, paid media assets, as well as offline.
• Responsible for consumer insight development and campaign concepts.
• Engage in ideation and strategic discussions alongside the creative team to contribute to the formulation of creative direction, emphasizing visual aesthetics.
• Develop visually stunning and impactful designs that engage and resonate with target audiences, driving brand awareness and maximizing conversions.
• Build, lead, and review the work of the creative team in the production of all web, print, and digital marketing collateral.
• Help mentor, guide and educate Creatives in the development of strong, creative work.
• Present creative concepts and campaigns to clients and prospects, articulating the rationale behind each idea and being able to defend these creative ideas.
• Committed to finding creative solutions to marketing challenges.
• Other duties as assigned by the CEO.
• This is a full-time hybrid position.

What you need to be successful in this role:

• Proven experience as a Multicultural Creative Director in the US Market, with a strong focus on digital and expertise in social media and paid media assets, 10+ years of experience.
• Impressive portfolio demonstrating your exceptional creativity in creating key visuals that communicate ideas.
• ENGLISH must be the *dominant language* and must be able to communicate in SPANISH.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and clients. 
• PALM ERA is a fast-paced agency; you must be willing and able to adapt to changes
• Flexibility to work varied hours to meet deadlines
• Must be high energy, proactive, and a team player
• GROWTH:  The best fit is a person who desires to grow professionally as this is a high-growth opportunity.  We value people with entrepreneurial skills and spirit.

Does it sound appealing?  I want to hear from you at  [email protected].  

PALM ERA

Marks is hiring an Associate Creative Director, Packaging Design for our Marks Chicago studio!

Who are we?

Marks is a consumer experience agency creating engaging moments across the entire brand spectrum – from brand design and packaging to content and consumer connections. Rooted in a deep understanding of human behavior, we are uniquely constructed to enable brands to win in an age of constant change.

A super-charged experience powerhouse – 700 people strong, with subject matter experts working collaboratively across 12 studios and 8 countries – we have helped some of the world’s biggest brands connect to their audiences and tackle the biggest challenges and opportunities of today’s consumer landscape.

About the team

This Marks Packaging Design team is a talented agency-within-an-agency. Constructed to service an exclusive retail client engagement – this group lives and breathes packaging craft across a versatile collection of brands and categories – from food & beverages to household essentials. A multidisciplinary group of problem-solvers, you’ll work alongside creatives, project managers, copywriters, CGI artists, photographers, and production artists alike, to bring new packaging designs, extensions, adaptations, and updates to life.

This role is designated hybrid – working 3 days a week from our Chicago studio (located in the bustling Fulton Market neighborhood), as well as from home.

Location: Fulton Market Studio

Model: Hybrid

Salary: $115K-$125K

About the Role

This position calls for a highly collaborative team member with a creative spark, sophisticated design abilities, strong communication skills, passion, and self-motivation. You will be tasked with thoughtful problem-solving, that leads to high-caliber packaging executions – pushing and elevating our creative product.

As an Associate Creative Director, you will foster creative excellence within the team across the full spectrum of Packaging design. You’ll manage projects and client relationships, ensuring that the creative vision solves a business problem successfully, on budget, and on time. You will uphold the agency’s position as a collaborative subject matter expert for our clients. Associate Creative Directors are responsible for leading, presenting and defending designs and strategic solutions to clients.

On any given day you might

• Liaise with client stakeholders to intake project briefs and set the approach on new creative asks
• Lead the development overarching creative ideas and concepts on projects ranging from packaging design refreshes, new sub-brands, and category extensions
• Actively participate in brainstorming sessions and internal reviews
• Lead and mentor your team of Creative Packaging Design experts
• Work with your Design Director and their team of Adaptive Designers to ensure integrity in execution through packaging rollouts and adaptations
• Work with Project Managers and Schedulers to resource and maintain timelines across multiple projects
• Shape and craft compelling presentation narratives to support and sell through creative concepts
• Consult and provide Packaging Design subject matter expertise with clients and internal stakeholders alike
• Uphold creative integrity and ingenuity by keeping up to date with the latest Packaging trends and innovations

The ideal person

• Has experience in building and/or leading creative teams
• Can actively manage and monitor the health and blend of the creative group – proactively supporting with training and mentorship as needed
• Is a strategic problem solver with experience in Consumer Packaged Goods
• Is a strong communicator and can confidently convey the rationale behind design solutions
• Loves digging into problems and seeing beyond the “ask”
• Can guide the extended team through complex packaging executions and approaches
• Understands consumer purchase behavior and can think in design systems
• Has an excitement for their discipline that is contagious
• Has an understanding of packaging print processes and their technical limitations
• Brings a roll-up-your-sleeves-and-get-it-done attitude

You Bring

• Diploma/Degree in Communication, Graphic, or Packaging Design (or related field)
• 8+ years (minimum) working in a Packaging Design role, with Director level management experience
• Well-rounded portfolio showcasing excellent understanding of brand building and packaging solutions
• A deep understanding of Mac OS, Adobe Creative Suite (Expert knowledge of Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign), Microsoft Word, Excel, and Keynote

Marks, part of SGS & Co

Overview:

Baringa Partners is a fast growing, award-winning consultancy with over 1,300 consultants, and offices within six of the world’s leading markets. We are a different type of consultancy – from what we do to how we do it; we put our people first and are passionate about creating lasting impact and results. We achieve this impact through teams of highly experienced industry and consulting professionals working collaboratively with and as part of our client’s teams. We work in teams rich with experienced leaders, affording our junior team members the opportunity to learn and develop deep industry and technical skills. We are proudly independent, and thus bring our own point of view, and challenge to help clients create outcomes that are right for them – we often are the critical friend.

Following market leading growth, we have ambitious expansion plans in 2022 and beyond, and are currently looking for industry leaders and consultants with a range of experience levels to join our growing Consumer Products & Retail practice.

Baringa believes that diversity is paramount to driving creativity, innovation, and value for our clients and for our people, by creating an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging is central to our culture. We’ve achieved B Corp™ status, meaning we’ve been independently verified as using business as a force for good. Being a B Corp is proof Baringa meets high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. We view this as the beginning, not the end, of a journey: B Corp status is now written into our articles of association, ensuring we continue making life better for our clients, people, the communities in which we work, and the planet.

We are looking for talented people who can combine strong Consumer Products & Retail industry consulting experience with an entrepreneurial spirit and passion to help build and grow this target sector in the US.

Consumer Products & Retail Business Unit Overview:

• The Consumer Products & Retail Business Unit provides consulting and strategy services to many of the world’s leading Consumer Packaged Goods manufacturers and retailers
• We work with our clients to shape and execute solutions for their most pressing challenges and opportunities:
• Understanding, shaping and responding to climate-driven business transformation imperatives
• Transforming operating models, workforce, culture and technology to be truly digital businesses
• Optimizing channel partner and consumer engagement models within the context of the consumer of today and tomorrow
• Re-imaging and transforming supply chains that are responsible, resilient, agile and insight powered
• The US Consumer Products & Retail business unit is part of a global Consumer Products & Retail BU and growing Baringa US business

At Baringa, our aim is to recruit the best client advisors and deep content experts who thrive in our people-first culture. We want people who are highly motivated and well-rounded. People who have an entrepreneurial spirit and who want to help to make a difference to the business. People who are committed and passionate about providing first-class client service.

Baringa believes that diversity is paramount to driving creativity, innovation, and value for our clients and for our people. All applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, nationality, disability, age, or social background.

What will you be doing?

We’re building a strong team of Consumer Products and Retail Industry Supply Chain consultants in the US.

Our team will be focused on helping our clients shape, design, implement and deploy their next generation supply chain operating models and capabilities. Specifically, our team members can expect to be working with clients in dynamic teams of experts focused on area such as:

• Intelligent/automated supply chains
• Supply Chain resiliency and sustainability
• Supply Chain planning and operations
• Integrated business planning
• Autonomous Fulfillment and logistics strategies
• Network optimization
• Global sourcing strategies and execution
• Circular supply chains
• Change management, coaching and support
• Continuous Improvement

More broadly, you will be expected to:

• Undertake professional services roles helping clients address multi-layer, complex supply chain issues in support of their strategic objectives
• Lead or work as part of a combined team of client and Baringa personnel.
• Build strong relationships with clients and to generate consulting opportunities and establish lasting partnerships.
• Have the desire to develop our dynamic company, grow our business and contribute to our culture.
• ​Help build the capability of the current team in your specialist areas.
• Demonstrate an aptitude for leading and conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses, including the timely synthesis of complex data into meaningful and actionable insights.

Specific roles will vary depending on requirements, but typically require application of a combination of business analysis, process design, utilization of advanced analytics/intelligent automation and organizational change management skills.

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of Supply Chain consulting experience in the Consumer Products and/or Retail sectors
• Deep expertise across Procure to Pay with particular focus in Procurement Operations and Strategy, Supplier Management and Collaboration and Spend Analysis
• Demonstrated project management of teams in delivering engagements around procurement operations, sourcing and buying strategies, supplier collaboration or spend analytics.
• Demonstrated capability to be successful as a business consultant, namely the ability to deliver and help realize benefits in challenging, client-facing environments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, technical and data proficiency preferred
• Deep understanding of procurement related applications and experience in building process and organizational design around them
• Active network of relationships with procurement executives
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Degree at graduate or undergraduate level
• Applicants must be eligible to work in the US

​What else is in it for you?

Well it’s up to you, Baringa is what you make it…

• We give you every opportunity to progress by having four promotional reviews a year.
• You decide on the training you need. We invest in you, to ensure you remain the best in the business.
• There are no barriers and everyone is accessible, from our Analysts to our Partners.
• We actively promote a healthy work-life balance through several policies and programs, especially in these exceptional times. Our HR team would love to talk you through the details.
• We believe we are a great place to work – but it’s not just us that say that. We have been ranked first as the Best Workplace in many of the geographies where we operate by the ‘Great Place to Work’ awards and had a top six spot for nine consecutive years.
• We are proudly geeky, winning industry awards in UK, Germany, Singapore and so on.

Baringa

Laughlin Constable is looking for candidates who want to create meaningful change in their work by leading with heart.

We follow a set of beliefs in our daily approach. Ideas can come from anywhere, at any time. Life is too short to work somewhere that doesn’t satisfy your soul. And the best work feels PERSONAL. If you agree, then you might have the makeup of a Griffin (the moniker given to all who work at LC based off the mythical guardian of treasures).

The Project Manager role is to partner on assigned accounts with the account management team and various cross-discipline team members in order to provide best-in-class service to LC’s clients. Multi-channel integrated experience in an agency setting is necessary in this position.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES – what do the BEST Griffins do in this role?

• Primary process facilitator on assigned account portfolio across traditional and digital media channels
• Experienced project manager who is able to lead the internal team and provide solutions as needed
• Owner of the internal workflow process from inception to completion
• Maintains a global and detailed view of workflow/resources on account portfolio
• Acts as the hub of communication between agency teams as the first point of contact for initiating new requests
• Thorough understanding of project scope, and ability to flag not only risk but opportunities for efficiencies and improvements
• Establishment and management of budgets/timelines
• Client facing communications as needed through the project life cycle
• Proficiency in multi-tasking the management of individual projects and internal teams simultaneously
• Impeccable attention to detail and organizational skills
• Passion for bringing great work to life and keeping teams motivated, focused and inspired

SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• 3-5 years managing projects of varying size and complexity within an integrated agency environment
• Experience managing large interdisciplinary teams
• Understanding of project management methodology including the ability to identify and resolve issues, manage risk, develop detailed timelines and specifications, perform resource allocations and run team meetings
• Knowledge of development life cycles for web and mobile technologies
• Monitor ongoing scope, track and analyze budgets, adjust task-level schedules, communicate status, solve problems, and provide positive team leadership in a collaborative work environment
• As required, help define, document and maintain functional requirements; correlate requirements with technical solutions
• Manage execution of complex custom software or application development efforts, many of which involve interfacing with our client’s IT teams and their technical leads
• Oversee the design, development, and deployment of multiple large-scale projects, including custom software, websites, email & marketing automation campaigns, social content, applications and more, from conception to completion
• Manage the financial operations of running a project
• Develop creative solutions to problems in relation to tactical and strategic project issues
• Demonstrate superior prioritization skills and ability to change focus on a dime for a given day
• Demonstrate an agile mindset to embrace, and successfully handle fluid landscapes
• Proficiency in project management tools, MS Project and MS Office 365
• Process-driven and always looking for innovative ways to streamline
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong presentation skills

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Advertising, or related field

TRAVEL:

• Willingness to travel on occasion

WORK ENVIRONMENT and PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or touch objects or controls and talk or hear. The employee is required to occasionally stand, walk, reach above shoulders, lift and carry up to 25 pounds and kneel, crouch or stoop. There are no specific vision abilities required by this job.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position but is rather the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. This is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties and employee(s) will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. This job description is not an employment contract, implied or otherwise. The employment relationship remains “at-will”.

Laughlin Constable

WHO WE ARE

The Desire Company has built the world’s only community of experts who tell the truth about the products they actually use and trust in the form of video product reviews. Having just closed a Series A round of funding, we’re at an exciting stage in our evolution which will see us grow our team by over 200% by the end of 2023. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to work in a start-up during the exciting growth phase, imagine there’s an awesome team of passionate, smart, talented, and nice people, all working together to achieve ambitious goals and make a real difference in the world. Working remotely across 6 different states, we’re innovating every day, moving quickly and with purpose, to bring truth and integrity back to product reviews in a pretty innovative way. (If we do say so ourselves.)

At the heart of our company is our incredible community of experts – from Lady Gaga’s Dance Captain to Pink’s make-up artist, to Rihanna’s back-up dancer, to Jennifer Anniston’s Pilates teacher to Charlize Theron’s stylist to NFL Players, top chefs, artists, and more – who share their wisdom, experience and knowledge through honest product reviews, how-tos and classes. Beyond getting to work with some very cool people, what we’re doing matters. Working with professionals – not influencers – helping people get informed – not influenced and working with some of the world’s top brands and retailers to change the way people get the information they need to make good decisions about the products they’re buying. If that wasn’t enough, we’re committed to making The Desire Company a great place to work. A place where we value our employees and the important contributions each and every person makes to our success.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Brand Partnerships Sales Executive is responsible for curating outside relationships with enterprise level brands through cold outreach, existing relationships, and brand connections. The vertical focus will be on health, wellness and fitness (along with other categories) so interest in those areas is a plus. Our ideal candidate is quota motivated, passionate, and excels as an individual contributor.

Responsibilities

• Build enterprise level partnerships with SMB brands
• Build and leverage key brand, shopper and digital relationships within our customers’ organizations to drive required results and exceed goals
• Utilize existing relationships with brands or retailers to expand The Desire Co book of business
• Assist in the development of the sales plan. Prepare forecasts and KPI reporting for team leaders for use in organizational planning, financial forecasting, budget setting and strategic planning.
• Land and expand: continue to build on the existing process and funnel for manual top-down outreach, onboarding, activation, and expansion
• Establish the inbound lead requirements needed to meet sales objectives and identify requirements that other teams will need in order to successfully create proper deliverables for strategic partners

Requirements

• 8-10 years experience in sales/business development, ideally for a media agency, content platform, or ad agency with experience in media relationships and selling into retailers or brands
• Ability to transition your own book of business and/or contacts and bring existing brand executive connections
• Proven industry track record of winning new business and building strategic partnerships with large, national customers
• Ability to articulate client strategies, using industry knowledge to expand business opportunities
• Previous success of prospecting, building a solid pipeline of opportunities, moving opportunities through the sales cycle, and presenting and discussing solutions with C-level and other decisions-makers

The Desire Company

Quill.com makes the job of ordering supplies easier and more rewarding. While delivering everything from paper, ink, and toner to cleaning supplies and technology. Quill showcases exceptional customer service. Quill had proven to be a trusted partner of Staples since being acquired in 1998.

What you’ll be doing:

• Develop media plans for brand marketing and marketing partnership efforts that meet marketing objectives, target audience, and budget.
• Negotiate media rates and contracts with vendors and media outlets, while ensuring that they follow the budget and goals.
• Analyze media data and provide recommendations for media optimization and future campaigns.
• Work with creative team to develop engaging and effective advertising content.
• Monitor campaign performance and make necessary adjustments to ensure campaign success.
• Provide regular updates on campaign performance, including media spend, impressions, and other relevant metrics.
• Manage relationships with media vendors and outlets, staying up to date on the latest media trends and technologies.
• Maintain accurate records of media placements, contracts, and performance metrics.
• Stay up to date with industry developments and apply best practices to our media buying strategies.
• Collaborate with strategic partners to realized shared strategic marketing plans that contribute to mutual growth in alignment with Quill’s business initiatives.
• Drive cross functional teams to execute based on partnership plans and go-to-market strategies.

What you bring to the table:

• Self-starter with strong organizational skills who can work independently and collaboratively on multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail with excellent organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Solid time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Strong problem solver who knows how to ask the right questions, build hypotheses and prove or disprove with data insights.
• Very strong analytical and quantitative skills with a demonstrated ability to interpret and leverage data to drive decision making.
• Strong written & verbal communication skills.
• Ability to adjust easily to the constantly evolving needs of a company in growth mode.
• Ability to thrive on giving and receiving constructive feedback in service of doing great work.
• Genuine passion for media buying and innovation in your area of expertise.

Qualifications :

What’s needed- Basic Qualifications:

• 5+ years of programmatic media experience, preferably in CTV/Display/Video and some exposure to Linar/Native/Audio/OOH.
• Strong experience in Amazon DSP plus a variety of additional DSPs (TTD & DV360 preferred), and Ad Servers.
• B2B partner marketing experience required.
• Deep experience in marketing and ad technology.
• Experience with ad platforms like Google Ads, Facebook, LinkedIn, and more.
• Experience in data analysis and visualization (Data Studio, Tableau, etc.).
• Ability to use Adobe Analytics and Google Analytics to track success of campaigns and efforts and make recommendations based on quantitative analysis.
• Proficient with critical metrics (CPC, CPL, CPA, LT, etc.) and attribution.
• Ability to review and analyze contracts and familiarity with standard marketing partnership deal structures.

What’s needed- Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in marketing, advertising, communications.
• Salesforce experience.
• Experience with Jira.

We Offer:

• Hybrid work schedule: 3 days onsite and 2 days per week remote
• Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Group.
• Flexible PTO (22 days) and Holiday Schedule (7 observed paid holidays)
• Online and Retail Discounts, Company Match 401(k), Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs, and more perks and benefits

Quill

Floral Department Director and Lead Designer

At Urban Allure Events, we are dedicated to transforming our clients’ dreams into reality. We’ve been featured in places like The New York Times, Forbes, and Good Housekeeping, and we’ve created over 500+ amazing events. Our main goal? Making sure our clients celebrate like no other.

We believe in being different. Instead of following the crowd, we set new trends. And guess what? We don’t just plan events; we design unforgettable experiences. Luxury is about standing out, not blending in.

Our full-scale design and floral production ensure that every detail is meticulously covered, guaranteeing that each celebration looks and feels perfect. We prioritize making what’s important to our clients important to us. 

As industry leaders, we continuously raise the bar, setting trends and standards while standing firmly against hidden commissions. We believe in authenticity and deeply understanding our clients’ identities, which are the foundation of exceptional events.

We envision events where flowers become storytellers as an art form. Whether maximalist or minimalist, we believe no detail is too minor or elusive. Every detail counts.

As a full-time team, we’re committed to devoting our energy, expertise, and creativity exclusively to a select number of events. We believe in constant growth and we are committed to staying on the forefront of industry standards. 

Our commitment is to ensure that each celebration is as unique as our clients. We are LGBTQIA+ allies and advocate loudly for things that matter to us.

We are looking to grow our team and are searching for a full time Floral Department Director and Lead Designer to join our team! 

Required qualifications:

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in floral design in large scale weddings and events
• Full time availability with flexible work schedule and hours
• Minimum 3 days a week in studio
• Weekend availability
• Ability to manage projects and time in a remote and independent work environment
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, supporting the overall success of Urban Allure Events
• Visionary – Passionate about setting trends
• Good Listener – Ability to communicate and listen effectively with clients on their design wants and needs
• Budget – Ability to discuss and maintain budgets for clients and company

Responsibilities includes: 

Sales:

• Manage and communicate with all prospective clients – create design decks and proposals within a timely manner
• Document creation and upkeep related to all floral and design clients
• Create and Manage relationships with wholesalers, vendors, planners, venues, etc.

Lead Design/Creative:

• Lead Designer for all clients or company sponsored events as assigned
• Floral sourcing, recipes, ordering, sample meetings, venue walkthroughs for all booked and/or potential clients
• Designing, ordering, receiving and merchandising department products
• Meetings with Urban Allure Events planning clients to discuss vision board and design process
• Styled Shoots – Create new content for marketing and build new vendor relationships. Styled shoots should be seasonal and inline with current trends.

Operations and on-site management:

• Responsible for sourcing and scheduling contracted event staff as needed including:
• Design Staff
• Production Staff
• Set up & Strike Staff
• Manage inventory – including purchasing and sourcing 
• Assist in yearly goal setting and budget discussions with Leadership
• Studio Management
• New vendor partnerships 
• Attend networking events to grow our business reputation & relationships
• Community Involvement
• Website Content suggestions to maintain industry and company standards and showcase work
• Serve as main point of contact for all Design related questions, comments, or concerns for booked clients
• Mentor and guide Design team, ensuring timelines and important milestones are met along the design and development process as needed
• Create & Manage P&L for each event as required by Operations Manager and Accounting Team.

Programs:

• Learn and understand the use of:
• Curate
• Canva
• Allseated (floorplans)
• Trello (task manager)
• Aisle Planner
• Zoom 
• Google Drive 

Compensation: This is a full time role with competitive compensation based on experience.

Bonuses: This role is eligible for bonuses based on Company performance. 

Benefits: 

• PTO
• Phone reimbursement 
• Health, Vision, Dental offered after 90 days of employment with employer contributions
• 401k with generous match after 90 days of employment
• Annual stipend for continued education

Urban Allure Events

POSITION SUMMARY

Effectively establish, coordinate, lead, and improve training approaches through a variety of channels to reach all levels of the organization. Indirectly manages leaders throughout the organization in the gathering, development, and testing of training platforms. Influences key business leaders in the implementation and adoption of training platforms to serve functional areas and manufacturing locations through North America. Develops the strategy, policies, objectives, plans, and organizes procedures focused on the development and integration of online and video training approaches to augment existing training platforms within Continuous Improvement. Work with all Business units on prioritization, strategy, and scope of training to be targeted by integrating Safety, Quality, Operational Best Practices, and Continuous Improvement Curriculum and Approach into short content available to all employees. Work through Legal and IT requirements for security, access. Manage licensing, selection of platforms to serve the businesses needs by working with plants and all BU’s to ensure adoption and implementation. While this role is initially targeting Deephow and Poka’s accelerated development, it won’t be limited, as it’s expected different platforms and approaches will develop in time to suit business needs. Work with vendors for improvements to fit USG’s culture and capabilities. Work directly with Technical Services, Safety, Quality, and Continuous Improvement in prioritization. Coordinate all in person and online training within Continuous Improvement, including Teams calls with network, green belt training, scheduling of black belt training. Manages training and assessment schedules within CI. Strong subject matter expertise in manufacturing process, basic understanding of formulations, formation, batching processes, reliability processes, and general safety requirements and quality bulletins. Strong understanding of CI management system required with understanding of how to structure best practice training within operational environment with sustainment through CI management system once training is complete.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership
Decision Making/Problem Solving
Teamwork
Administration/Organization
Energy/Drive/Ambition
Other Accountabilities

KEY QUALIFICATIONS:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Engineering, or equivalent work experience. Green Belt, Black Belt, or Master Black belt preferred.

Certification Requirements

• Must successfully complete the USG Certification for Green Belt, Black Belt, or MBB. PMP a plus.

Years of Experience

• Minimum of ten years experience in plant operations or ten years in some other corporate department manager level capacity.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and team management skills.

• An interest to become an expert in video development, be able to coach, and create a faster learning process through a ‘you tuber’ environment to drive adoption and learning more swiftly.

• Strong organizational and project management skills.

• Travel required – 25% at least.

Preferred Skills

• Strong business orientation and financial analysis skills.

• Have created content in Deephow is preferred.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in order to persuade groups or individuals to take a certain course of action.

• Excellent time management and project management skills to keep focused on the goals of the project.

Additional Information:

Rate of pay may be adjusted based on the qualifications and experience of the candidate.

USG employees enjoy a number of benefit options for themselves and their families. These include two medical insurance options, as well as vision and dental coverage. The cost of these optional programs varies based on coverage level – employees generally pay 25% of the monthly premium cost, USG pays the rest. These coverage options are offered on the first day of employment with no waiting period.

Additionally, USG employees enjoy both a 401(k) Investment Plan with company match and a pension plan. Beyond these main features, employees may also choose from a number of additional programs like life insurance, accident insurance, legal insurance, even pet insurance, just to name a few. USG also offers Quarterly (hourly) / Annual (salary) bonus potential for all employees based on performance metrics tied to safety, quality, and productivity.  USG also provides employees with paid time off and paid holidays.

Since 1902, Chicago-based USG has been a leader in producing innovative, award-winning products and systems to build everything from major commercial developments and residential housing to home improvements. USG’s employees are committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and quality in everything we do. Our steadfast commitment to the company’s core business values – innovation, quality, integrity, service, diversity, efficiency and safety – have helped us become the company we are today.

 EOE including disability/veteran

USG

About the job

Company Overview

Educational & Institutional Insurance Administrators, Inc. (EIIA) is a Member-driven consortium of private, faith-inspired colleges, universities and seminaries providing innovative insurance and risk management services. EIIA was formed over fifty (50) years ago during the 1960s when a number of historically Black colleges and universities associated with the United Methodist Church were unable to obtain property and casualty coverages from the traditional insurance marketplace. The United Methodist Church assisted the colleges by encouraging them to purchase the coverage as a group. This generated adequate premium volume for an insurance company to offer coverage. EIIA was formally incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation in 1976 with the specific purpose of providing group purchasing and administration of insurance programs for higher education institutions.

The group purchasing of the property and casualty coverages for these colleges was so successful that the concept spread to employee health and welfare benefit programs, long-term disability, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, and student health and accident needs of these institutions. Risk management services were added to aid these institutions in managing and avoiding risk.

EIIA’s office is located in downtown Chicago and currently works in a hybrid/hoteling office environment. EIIA’s staff of insurance and risk management professionals serve more than one hundred and forty-five (145) higher education institutions located in thirty-nine (39) states. In addition, EIIA operates two (2) Vermont domiciled captive insurance companies and two (2) grantor trusts.

EIIA Members participate in the Master Property & Casualty (P&C) Program consisting of 11 coverages. The Risk Management (RM) Team supports their assigned Members with risk management advice, campus surveys, presentations and more. In addition, EIIA provides Members services in the areas of Student Programs, Employee Benefits, and Claims. EIIA also utilizes third-party vendors to provide services in addition to guidance documents that are created, published, and posted on the Member website.

Currently, EIIA is seeking an Executive Director of Claims that will report to the President & CEO.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Executive Director of Claims is a newly created and visible position among the EIIA staff and will lead the development, implementation, and execution of EIIA’s claims strategy, with emphasis on service to EIIA Members, client advocacy, and vendor/TPA management.

In partnership with other EIIA managers and leaders, the position will also identify claims trends and influence Members to actively participate in driving improved claim outcomes.

Significant Job Responsibilities

Serves as a process innovation lead and liaison across the organization and works with EIIA staff, third-party service providers, and Members to facilitate troubleshooting, efficiency, and ease of doing business.

• Effectively communicates claim reporting processes and responsibilities to EIIA Members.
• Establishes expertise with EIIA coverage provisions.
• Builds SLA’s and key metrics with EIIA’s TPA partners.
• Builds an audit process to document that the TPA’s are meeting requirements.
• Conducts RFP processes to vet potential new vendors and partners, as necessary.
• Reviews roles, responsibilities, and structure of the claims team and proposes any changes necessary to improve overall effectiveness in customer service, communication, and Member advocacy.
• Works with the P&C team and Risk Management team to develop Member claim trends and metrics.
• Acts as the EIIA point person in claim negotiations and settlements.
• Participates in the identification, assessment, and implementation of a new EIIA technology and UX platform.
• Attends and participates in Member and advisory committee meetings.
• All other duties as assigned, including supporting other teams and programs as required.
• Duties are subject to change based on organizational needs.

Required Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to accurately perform each essential duty. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is preferred with ten (10) years of claims experience across commercial property and casualty lines of business. Experience with a TPA or commercial insurance broker is preferred. A legal background is also a strong plus.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has two direct reports.

Primary Skill Sets

This position requires strong interpersonal and computer skills especially Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, along with extensive familiarity with MS CRM, website management, and data or learning management systems; solid communication skills (both verbal and written); customer service orientation; ability to take technical resource drafts and generate final copy; keen eye for details; ability to analyze data and manage multiple projects accurately and independently with minimal to moderate-level supervision; ability to easily adapt to workload demands; decision making in a timely and efficient manner; dependability; creativity; self-initiative; team participation and accountability.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with a disability to perform the essential functions.

Travel

Some travel, possibly to participate in the EIIA Annual Members Meeting, meetings with vendors, industry conferences and EIIA client meetings; less than 20% of total time.

Work Environment

Hybrid model. In office as needed.

Background Check Required

This position is subject to pre-employment screening which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications.

Other Duties and Accommodations:

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Come join our EIIA Team! Interested candidates should forward a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to Joe Dudzik at [email protected].

EIIA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Educational and Institutional Insurance Administrators (EIIA)

The Vendor Manager is responsible for managing the overall health and effectiveness of CrossCom’s Variable Field Tech (VFT) Network and for developing and maintaining strong relationships with our VFTs to ensure the efficient and cost-effective supply of required services. Direct reports will include staffers that engage in prospecting, recruiting, and support related to the VFT network. As a key manager in the organization, the Vendor / VFT Manager will have accountability to ensure that appropriate capacity and the proper skillsets exist (at scale) within the VFT network. The Vendor / VFT Manager is also responsible to expand the VFT network into new skillsets and new territories when required. Key responsibilities, required Experience/Education, and Competencies are detailed below.

Responsibilities

• Identify potential VFTs and assess their suitability based on quality, cost, reliability, and compliance with company standards.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with vendors to secure favorable terms, pricing, and service level agreements.
• Collaborate with legal and admin teams to ensure contract compliance and risk mitigation.
• Cultivate strong and mutually beneficial relationships with VFTs, serving as the primary point of contact.
• Generate regular reports on VFT performance, cost savings, and KPI; conduct thorough vendor evaluations and performance reviews to ensure vendors meet or exceed established criteria.
• Monitor vendor performance to ensure adherence to quality standards and compliance with product specifications; implement quality improvement initiatives as needed.
• Analyze pricing structures and cost strategies to identify cost saving opportunities; develop and implement cost reduction strategies while maintaining quality standards
• Ensure VFTs comply with all relevant regulations, industry standards, and company policies.
• Assess and mitigate risks associated with VFT relationships.
• Use data-driven insights to make informed decisions and improvements.

Qualifications

·        Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

·        Proven experience in vendor management or procurement, with a minimum of 5 years in a similar role.

·        Working knowledge of Structured Cabling/Low Voltage (CAT5 / CAT6), Telco, and Retail IT industry concepts highly desired / preferred.

·        Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

·        Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.

·        Familiarity with contract law and procurement regulations.

·        Proficiency in using software, BI Tools to create and utilize vendor KPI.

·        Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.

·        Detail-oriented and highly organized.

·        Results-driven with a focus on achieving cost savings and efficiency.

Competencies

·        Strong leader with the ability to motivate team members and achieve successful outcomes

·        Strong decision-making and execution skills

·        Excellent communication skills

·        Strong industry awareness

·        Strong People skills

·        Demonstrated ability to adapt and be resourceful

·        Superior negotiation skills

·        Solid analytical and presentation skills

·        Strong conflict management skills

·        Proven ability to network

·        Proficient in use of Microsoft Excel (minimum skill requirement includes being able to use features such as V-Lookup, creating and manipulating pivot tables, producing multi-scale charting, keyboard shortcuts, etc.)

·        Proficient in use of Microsoft Word, to assist in creating and modifying Department documentation

·        Proficient in use of Microsoft PowerPoint, to create and update various slide content for both internal and external use

·        Must be results oriented and demonstrate an appropriate sense of urgency as required to successfully deliver on required Department targets

CrossCom