Print production manager/assistant

Job description

Print production managers organise, control and monitor the flow of printed materials in a printing or publishing company. They check schedules, confirm product specifications, arrange adjustments, oversee the work of staff in the department, monitor the quality of the product and ensure deadlines are met. Print production assistants arrange page layouts of books, magazine articles, photographs and advertising, draw up headlines and prepare copy for printing.

Most print production managers (also called print managers, production managers, producers, or print specialists) work as part of a team that includes sales managers, editors, graphic designers, project managers and art directors. Liaising with these professionals, it is their responsibility to coordinate the process of printing according to company requirements.

Many print production managers are often independent consultants who work with smaller design studios and agencies by project.

The print media sector is traditionally a large employer in Ireland. It is a technology driven sector which supports multi national activity as well as local industries.

Work activities

• Recommending efficient, time-saving project production flows.
• Identifying and selecting appropriate options for binding, inks, paper, varnishes, and special printing processes.
• Recommending the best printers for the specific project.
• Writing effective creative briefs and print specs that reflect client goals, printing requirements, scheduling, and budget constraints.
• Selecting and negotiating with vendors to agree on best price, quality, and due date.
• Sending requests for estimates to printers and follow up.
• Communicating the designer’s requirements to vendors.
• Creating and managing print production schedules
• Examining finished samples and approving quality before delivery to client.
• Reviewing, negotiating, and approving final invoices for payment.

Work conditions

Working hours: a flexible work schedule is needed due to the needs of the print industry.
Location: mainly in larger towns and cities.

Salaries

Salaries will vary depending on the employer.

Entry requirements and training

Postgraduate study

A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not a requirement.

Skills and qualities

• A passion for the craft of printing.
• Ability to think on your feet and to troubleshoot and solve problems at short notice.
• Ability to anticipate pitfalls and steer projects around them.
• Ability to manage and implement change.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.