Job Title: Print Production Manager (6-Month Contract)

Location: Richmond, VA REMOTE team - would like to hire from RVA

Duration: 6-Month Contract Assignment

Position Summary:

We are seeking a seasoned, hands-on Print Production Manager for an intensive 6-month contract assignment in the Richmond, VA area. In this role, you will act as the vital bridge between creative teams, internal marketing stakeholders, and external print vendors. You will oversee the end-to-end production lifecycle of multi-channel print campaigns ranging from collateral and direct mail to large-format graphics and packaging ensuring all projects are delivered on time, within strict budget constraints, and to the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• End-to-End Project Management: Manage the workflow of high-volume print projects from initial design hand-off through pre-press, printing, finishing, and final distribution/logistics.

  Vendor Sourcing & Negotiation: Partner with external print suppliers and vendors in the Richmond region and nationally to source competitive estimates, negotiate pricing, manage bidding, and secure optimal production schedules.

• Budget & Cost Control: Track and manage print production budgets for assigned portfolios, log purchase orders and invoices, and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.

• Pre-Press & Quality Assurance: Review spec sheets, pre-flight files, and approve color proofs/press proofs (conducting on-site press checks when necessary) to guarantee brand consistency and flawless output.

  Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with creative directors, copywriters, traffic coordinators, and account teams to align production schedules with marketing calendars.
• Status Tracking: Maintain and distribute daily priority lists, status reports, and project hot-lists to keep internal stakeholders informed of project milestones and potential bottlenecks.
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  Qualifications & Requirements:

• Experience: 5 8+ years of hands-on experience in print production, traffic management, or project coordination within an agency, corporate marketing department, or commercial printing environment.

• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of offset, digital, and large-format printing processes, paper stocks,finishing options, postal regulations (if direct mail is involved), and mailing house operations.

• Software Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Acrobat, Photoshop) and project management/tracking software (e.g., Workfront, FileMaker Pro, or similar ERP/DAM tools).

• Local Market Knowledge: Familiarity with Richmond-area print vendors, logistics networks, and distribution hubs is a strong plus.

• Soft Skills: Exceptional negotiation, problem-solving, and multi-tasking abilities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  
  Education: Bachelor s degree in Graphic Design, Communications, Printing Technology, or equivalent practical experience.