PRODUCTION MANAGER - POP/POS  Permanent Display & Signage Retail

The Production Manager will be responsible for all aspects of production by examining engineering drawings and specs, estimating, sourcing, procurement and execution of all permanent displays and signage. This role is essential in building and strengthening relationships with vendor partners, internal team members and the client while ensuring projects are produced ensuring quality, competitive pricing and delivered on time and within budget.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Gather project requirements and manage all production aspects on behalf of the client, working with vendors on delivery timetables and maintaining on updated status of assigned projects.
• Input all project specifications and relevant data into an internal system and maintain key data points in the system, including customer quotes, purchase orders, and invoices.
• Execute projects within contract-specified timelines, according to budget requirements and quality standards. 
• Work with vendors on design and sampling of any new displays, signage or fixtures.
• Coordinate sample production and approval
• Assist in sourcing new and alternative products and/or reliable Vendors
• Partner with Vendors to negotiate best pricing, lead-times, and terms
• Evaluating spending while seeking ways to improve & enhance the quality of products purchased.
• Maintain and manage vendor relationships that foster improved quality and service including issue resolution and alternative options for cost reduction or improved efficiencies
• Build relationships and communication channels with internal clients to ensure smooth workflow and handoffs.
• Builds a knowledge base of suppliers
• Continually seeks opportunities to improve customer satisfaction.
• Review supplier quality performance, make recommendations for improvement or to discontinue current relationship if needed.
• Liaison between internal and external stakeholders, agencies, and suppliers to ensure quality and on-time delivery within budget.
• Execute production efficiently in accordance with the procedures described in business processes.
• Provide high-quality customer service, communicating to internal clients with     appropriate and relevant status updates.
• Draft instruction sheets and work with Design for final layout.
• Escalate production issues immediately to management.
• Handle a multitude of complex and diverse product offerings from beginning-to-end, including installation
•  Approve supplier samples, pre-production materials and finished parts packaging materials and processes.
• Make pre-production unit if required, to be approved by customer, sales and manger as needed.

REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 3+ years of permanent and semi-permanent retail display production experience.
• Proven track record of successful purchasing experience in a manufacturing, client, or agency environment.
• Experience with vendor negotiations and project management.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office software, specifically Excel.
• Ability to read blueprints and have some construction experience
• Self-motivated, dependable, diligent
• Must be highly organized, customer focused, problem solver.
• Demonstrated aptitude in learning new technology for application in a professional environment.
• Ability to work independently with a drive to continually hit goals and succeed.
• Client communication and problem-solving experience with a solution-oriented mindset.
• Experience with procurement of retail permanent display, signage, lighting, textiles, plastic, wood and steel construction

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