Production Manager

Overview

Operating within the core values and operating principles for the organization, the Production Manager will lead all facets of direct mail production, encompassing print production, materials sourcing, proofing, and collaboration with dedicated product marketing teams and external partners. This role is critical in ensuring the timely delivery of materials, strict adherence to project specifications, and the seamless planning, execution, and delivery of direct mail campaigns. This role requires expertise in printing, lettershop operations, and postal regulations.

Responsibilities

Project Management:

• Coordinate and manage all aspects of direct mail print production, including planning, scheduling, and execution of campaigns.
• Identify scope, resources, timelines, and budgets to implement direct mail campaign strategies in alignment with company objectives.

Vendor Management:

• Collaborate with external print vendors to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of printed materials.

Quality Control:

• Implement and maintain quality control procedures to ensure all printed materials meet company standards and specifications.

Budget Management:

• Monitor and manage production budgets, ensuring cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
• Negotiate pricing and potential contracts with vendors to ensure appropriate supply-chain alignment.
• Support the leveraged spending goals of the organization to ensure cost alignment.

Process Optimization:

• Continuously evaluate and improve production processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
• Analyze campaign data (mail track reports and response rates) to evaluate performance and identify opportunities to drive continuous improvement.
• Implement best practices in project management and direct mail operations.

Compliance:

• Ensure all direct mail materials comply with postal regulations and company policies.

Reporting:

• Generate and analyze production reports to track performance, identify issues, and recommend improvements.

Team Collaboration:

• Serve as primary point of contact on production projects with dedicated life insurance product marketing team
• Work closely with marketing, design, and operations teams to align production efforts with campaign goals and timelines.
• Foster relationships with key stakeholders, including marketing, creative strategy, and external partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, business, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in direct mail production management.
• USPS Mailpiece Design Professional (MDP) Certification preferred.
• Experience working in the life insurance or financial services industry strongly preferred.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a plus.
• Proven track record of managing large-scale direct mail campaigns.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage and motivate teams.
• Expertise in project management methodologies and tools.
• In-depth knowledge of print production processes and postal regulations.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities.

What We Offer:

• A collaborative, energetic work environment where you can put your passion for people to work
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life and Disability coverage available day one
• Pension Plan
• Performance-based incentive plan
• 401k available with a Company match
• Holidays and Paid Time Off
• AAA Basic Membership