What are the responsibilities and job description for the Junior Buyer position at IMS Integrated Merchandising Solutions?
Production Associate
About The Role
IMS is seeking a Production Associate for our Skokie office. Reporting to the Production Director, you will manage the day-to-day execution of branded merchandise and POS projects, ensuring all client requirements are met efficiently, on-time, and on-budget. You'll work closely with Account Managers and vendors to oversee all aspects of project delivery while maintaining clear communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
IMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.
Please review our Data Privacy Policy for information on how we will store your application data.
About The Role
IMS is seeking a Production Associate for our Skokie office. Reporting to the Production Director, you will manage the day-to-day execution of branded merchandise and POS projects, ensuring all client requirements are met efficiently, on-time, and on-budget. You'll work closely with Account Managers and vendors to oversee all aspects of project delivery while maintaining clear communication with internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Gather project requirements and manage all production aspects, collaborating with vendors on delivery timelines and project status
- Input project specifications into procurement systems and maintain accurate tracking of quotes, purchase orders, and invoices
- Build and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure smooth workflow and quality handoffs
- Serve as liaison between internal teams, agencies, and suppliers to guarantee quality results and on-time delivery within budget
- Provide timely status updates and excellent customer service to clients
- Escalate production issues immediately to management for resolution
- Collaborate with Strategic Sourcing to identify suppliers and drive cost efficiencies
- Support vendor qualification and performance management activities
- Ensure achievement of SLAs and KPIs aligned with client standards and internal operational goals
- Assist Account Managers with project presentations and account updates as needed
- Contribute to process improvements and operational efficiency initiatives
- 2 years of procurement, production, vendor management, or related experience
- Experience in POS (Point of Sale) or branded merchandise preferred (but not required)
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with attention to detail and quality
- Proficiency with procurement/project management systems and Microsoft Office Suite
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Problem-solving abilities and customer-focused mindset
- Experience collaborating across cross-functional teams
- Organizational skills and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
- Detail-oriented with strong accuracy in data entry and record-keeping
- Commitment to IMS principles: Passion, Collaboration, Integrity, Inventiveness, and Proactivity
- Competitive salary
- Medical, dental, vision coverage (including family-forming and gender-affirming benefits)
- 401(k) with match
- Short and long-term disability insurance
- Generous PTO and hybrid work policy
- Training, development, and tuition reimbursement
- Peer recognition program
- Access to Omnicom Employee Resource Groups
IMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.
Please review our Data Privacy Policy for information on how we will store your application data.