Production Manager

This position oversees all aspects of most book production, a small number of book and calendar first printings, and specific tasks to support other department personnel.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with editorial and design colleagues to determine the best specification per title, and build effective specification for print production.
• Obtain quotes from printers and work to place projects within the placement guidelines of Andrews McMeel Production.
• Coordinate all steps (ordering through delivery) of  book and calendar titles on the front list of Andrews McMeel Publishing, Amen Editions, Amber Lotus imprints. Steps include preparing information for weekly inventory meeting, obtaining/confirming bound book/ex-factory date and other scheduling needs, write and send purchase order (PO) to printer, tracking and maintaining PO in inventory management system. Track and review print and shipping budget, and auditing/approving associated manufacturing/shipping invoices.
• Collaborate and problem solve from a production viewpoint throughout the ideation and production processes.
• Review color proofs – both physical and soft proofing – and be comfortable guiding Designers in file preparation.
• Monitor production quality and consistency for assigned titles.
• Monitor progress against schedules, keeping others updated with information and participate in all relevant weekly meetings.
• Work on special projects as necessary.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS

•  Strong verbal, written, and especially negotiation skills.
•  Willingness to learn various web-based software programs.
•  Capability to favorably interact with a variety of personalities.
•  Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
•  Problem-solving skills with a focus on achieving a mutually agreeable outcome with AMP vendors.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in graphic arts production.
• Proficiency in Office 365, Excel, Word, and Adobe PDF