Senior Production Manager
Company:
CTM
Department:
Account Management
Reports To:
Account Director
Date Approved:
04/23/2026
Job Summary:As a Senior Production Manager you will lead the end-to-end production of marketing and operational materials for a leading trade publisher. You will define and manage print production specifications, advise marketing teams on format, materials, and feasibility, and ensure outputs meet quality and cost objectives. You’ll manage schedules, coordinate with vendors and deliver projects on time and on budget. You will also own job setup, purchase order management, freight reconciliation, and invoicing within the production management system. Working closely with both internal and client teams, you’ll ensure campaigns run smoothly from concept to completion. Remote position.
Duties/Responsibilities:· Review active production schedules· Prioritize projects· Align key deadlines· Enter new jobs into production management system and ensure all projects are ready for execution· Review supplier quotes, timelines and specifications· Negotiate costs, confirm capacity, issue purchase orders and validate alignment of delivery expectations for upcoming campaigns· Partner with client’s marketing and creative teams in project kickoff meetings· Translate campaign objectives into clear production plans, identifying specifications, timelines, and potential risks early in the process· Monitor production progress across multiple projects, conducting quality checks and troubleshooting any issues with vendors or logistics. Reconcile freight charges and coordinate with internal teams to resolve challenges and keep projects on track· Review project financials, including estimates vs actuals. Finalize billing by validating costs and issuing customer invoices. Identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements and efficiencies to enhance future executionBasic Qualifications:
- 5+ years of experience in production management, ideally in print production
- Experience with purchasing and negotiating in a manufacturing, client, or agency setting
- Strong understanding of print production processes (pre-press, printing, finishing)
- Experience managing print and logistics vendors, including RFQs, bid analysis, and performance management
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects while upholding quality standards
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience with production management or ERP systems (e.g., print workflow or order management platforms)
- Strong financial acumen, including budget management, cost analysis, and reporting (advanced Excel required)
- Ability to meet deadlines under pressure and adapt to shifting priorities
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or related field preferred
- Abilities as a strategic thinker – ready to identify opportunities for innovation and process improvement in production and distribution.
- Possess highly organized and detail-oriented traits
- Skilled at building strong client relationships and possess a deep commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of clients in a way that fosters trust and long-term partnership.
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting while working at a
- Ability to participate in virtual meetings through video and audio
- Ability to view digital materials for extended periods with
- Ability to navigate digital file systems and project management
Travel Requirements:
- Occasional travel for client meetings, supplier facilities or team collaboration may be
- May require occasional overnight
$70,000 to $84,000
Skills Required
- 5+ years of experience in production management, ideally in print production
- Experience with purchasing and negotiating in a manufacturing, client, or agency setting
- Strong understanding of print production processes (pre-press, printing, finishing)
- Experience managing print and logistics vendors
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects while upholding quality standards
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience with production management or ERP systems
- Strong financial acumen, including budget management, cost analysis, and reporting
- Bachelor's degree in marketing, business, or related field preferred
What We Do
CJK Group is a privately held portfolio of international printing, publishing services, and technology/information solutions companies that supports book, catalog, journal, and magazine needs.
