Brand Integration Production Manager

Join a leading enterprise in the financial services sector, renowned for its commitment to innovation and client success. This organization is at the forefront of shaping how individuals and institutions manage their financial futures, delivering cutting-edge solutions and unparalleled service. Be a part of a dynamic team that thrives on creativity and strategic execution, making a tangible impact on brand presence and market reach.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly skilled Production Manager to play a pivotal role in bringing our brand vision to life across diverse media. This is an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of our marketing efforts, ensuring that every piece of communication, from print to digital, not only meets the highest quality standards but also resonates powerfully with our audience. You will be instrumental in driving seamless execution, collaborating with creative minds, and managing complex projects that directly enhance our brand's impact and market presence.

**What You'll Do:**

* Lead the planning and execution of integrated production across various channels, ensuring brand consistency and alignment with marketing objectives.

* Develop and manage comprehensive production plans, including scopes, estimates, schedules, and risk mitigation strategies to keep projects on track.

* Oversee cross-channel asset delivery and handoffs, ensuring accurate specifications, naming conventions, and version control for timely launches.

* Implement and uphold stringent quality assurance standards across all formats, covering color, typography, accessibility, functional testing, and compliance.

* Cultivate and manage relationships with external production partners, negotiating contracts, bids, and usage rights to optimize cost efficiency and quality.

* Drive projects from initial concept through to final delivery, collaborating closely with creative teams and external vendors.

* Craft and execute promotional strategies for major launches, campaigns, and brand initiatives across diverse channels.

* Analyze market trends and competitive landscapes to inform and innovate promotional strategies.

* Provide expert guidance to design and production teams on file construction and delivery specifics, ensuring vendor alignment and material quality.

* Manage significant production budgets, offering strategic advice on cost-effective design and delivery options to internal stakeholders.

* Define and manage project specifications, coordinating internal and external schedules to meet critical delivery milestones.

* Act as the primary owner for production quality assurance, overseeing file construction, image resolution, color accuracy, font usage, paper selection, and fulfillment processes.

* Leverage expertise in vendor capabilities to conduct competitive bid analyses and optimize external partnerships.

* Collaborate with vendors to develop dynamic template programming for personalized content generation.

* Serve as the subject matter expert in direct mail practices, understanding the intricate connection between data files and variable content rendering.

* Identify and implement cost-saving measures throughout the production process.

**Must-Have Qualifications:**

* 2-5 years of hands-on experience managing print production within an agency or internal design environment.

* Proven track record of collaborating effectively with creative professionals and studio production teams.

* Proficiency with creative workflow management systems (e.g., Workfront, Basecamp).

* Strong understanding of file construction principles and ability to utilize Adobe PDF for preview and review.

* Working knowledge of design software such as InDesign and Photoshop, including the creation of native source files.

* Demonstrated experience managing projects involving third-party vendors or clients.

* Expertise in developing precise Production Specifications to guide production processes.

* Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.

* Ability to thrive and maintain composure in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.

**Nice-to-Have Qualifications:**

* Familiarity with various paper stocks, weights, coatings, and their impact on visual outcomes with different ink configurations.

* Experience with purchasing processes, including unit cost analysis and managing change requests.

* Working knowledge of procurement systems (e.g., Peoplesoft, Ariba).

* In-depth understanding of Direct Mail best practices and Postal Regulations.

* Adept at estimating production timelines based on project specifications and quantities.

#LI-HC1

**About Aquent Talent:**

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match.

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.