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CDR FUNDRAISING GROUP PRODUCTION MANAGER

Description:

The Production Manager executes all production responsibilities for our nonprofit clients’ direct mail programs. Duties include bidding print, imaging and mail shop; proofing and quality control; awarding contracts to suppliers and vendors; maintaining communications with all suppliers and coordinating all aspects of the direct mail production process, keeping projects on time and within budget. Critical to the success of this role will be the ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Assumes all production responsibilities of assigned direct mail programs. Works closely with account teams to make sure program needs are met.
  • Manages production schedules for each job based on mail date and job specifications. Drives adherence to schedule in cooperation with clients, internal teams and external suppliers.
  • Engages in creative process, particularly regarding component specifications, cost-efficiency and adherence to USPS regulations. Creates final specifications for projects and shares internally.
  • Conducts competitive bidding, pricing analysis, negotiations and budgeting for all aspects of direct mail campaigns. Determines best supplier choice for each project, creates budgets and awards work. Analyzes cost efficiencies and makes recommendations for assigned clients. Coordinates with art department to manage organization of art release.
  • Reviews data documents and writes data processing, imaging and lettershop instructions. Ensures data and accompanying documents are issued to the supplier in a timely and secure manner.
  • Issues and updates purchase orders. Reviews and approves invoices for processing. Adheres to company billing procedures.
  • Performs quality control measures including, but not limited to, internal art review prior to output, review of printing proofs, data counts and dumps, personalization setups and insertion setups. Conducts press checks on an as needed basis. Communicates all changes to internal contacts and external suppliers.
  • Sustains knowledge of current postal regulations, suppliers and print technologies.
  • Directs lettershop in appropriate postage methods and analysis. Requests postage funds from client and reconciles all postage. Communicates expertise regarding USPS regulations.
  • Takes leadership of gang runs, acting as the Gang Run Manager, as assigned.
  • Follows all company procedures, maintains production files and distributes package samples.
  • Utilizes internal proprietary software for all production related documents and reports.
  • Traffics production jobs through to completion, adhering to timelines and mail dates. Ensures timely issuance of all reports and transmissions to appropriate parties.
  • Maintains communication with all key contacts throughout the process via phone and email.
  • Contributes to department related projects and events.

Skills:

  • Printing knowledge and expertise for managing Direct Mail programs for nonprofit fundraising.
  • Ability to create print specifications for multiple types of direct mail components.
  • Thorough understanding of direct mail data processing, imaging and insertion requirements.
  • Extensive knowledge of nonprofit postal rates and regulations.
  • Ability to work independently and efficiently on multiple deadline-oriented projects.
  • Ability to develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal staff and external suppliers.
  • Ability to work independently and efficiently on multiple deadline-oriented projects, and adaptable to changing conditions and requirements.
  • Other key competencies include strong communication and interpersonal skills; effective problem- solving abilities; sound decision making and judgement; and a commitment to quality.

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred.

Experience:

  • 3+ years of experience managing production in the direct mail industry.
  • Nonprofit experience required.
  • Agency experience required.

To apply:

Creative Direct Response, Inc., is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Interested candidates should submit resume via email to Lisa Behuncik, Human Resources Director, lbehuncik@cdrfg.com.