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Production Manager

The leading creative publishing agency, whitefox, is seeking a Production Manager to join our team. You’ll work closely with the Editorial Director, the wider in-house editorial team, and our sales & distribution team along with the external UK- and US-based physical distribution partners. This is a part-time role (3 days per week), with at least 1 day per week based in our London office.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the production processes for print, ebook and audiobook formats for our client-led projects. Responsibilities would include developing print specification options, gathering quotes and negotiating costs, developing and maintaining production schedules for all formats, pre-press passes, and arranging final delivery of printed projects to warehouses and clients once approvals are secured.

We’re looking for an individual with experience across pre-press and press production processes for both b&w and full-colour book production experience. Ebook and audiobook production skills would be very beneficial, but training can be provided. They will have a meticulous attention to detail and an appreciation for excellence in quality colour reproduction and print output, including high-end print production. They will be comfortable working within a small, collaborative group across several functions, bringing an entrepreneurial attitude and creative problem-solving mindset to the role. With excellent communications skills and being very numerate, they will be able to confidently plan, agree and deliver production schedules to meet the needs of the team and the client. 

Training in the company systems will be provided, but the ability to work independently to grow their knowledge of them is essential. 

Reporting to the Editorial Director and working closely with them, the wider team, and our clients, they will:

  • Create and oversee production timelines for all projects, covering print, ebook and audiobook formats, as required
  • Maintain live and accurate schedules for all projects within our systems (Asana, others) and communicate its status regularly with the internal team and as needed with printers and external suppliers
  • Manage production budgets, including the request and comparison of quotes and negotiations of prices
  • Manage the pre-press and colour reproduction processes including:
    • Assessing and logging originals
    • Briefing and preparing materials and files for colour reproduction o Proof-checking and colour correction o File checking o Cost negotiation
    • Reviewing and managing the final plotter/ozalid proof approval stage for interiors and covers
  • Develop and expand working relationships with key UK, European, US and Canadian print suppliers
  • Manage the financial processes for production, including PO submissions to suppliers, checking and approval of invoices, and tracking past and current print quotes for accuracy and price stability (Xero, Dropbox, internal P&L records)
  • Manage all ex-works deliveries and their packing and shipping requirements and any customs clearance documentation as needed
  • Archive any final materials and maintain live records for updates and reprints (Dropbox)
  • Request dummies, print samples and materials, as needed, for pitches to clients or for their review and consideration
  • Manage the ebook conversion and audiobook production processes, delivering final files to the business ready for upload to the client’s nominated distribution partner

This is a key role in the development and growth of our business. We are looking for someone able to master the demands of a nimble and fast-paced business while also being intensely organised and able to prioritise effectively. You’ll have the opportunity to join a fast-growing market leader in creative publishing services, working with individuals, businesses and brands across a range of adult and children’s trade titles. If you have the kind of skills, experience and attitude required, we’d love to hear from you.

The offices are based in Highbury in north London. Flexible working is available, but the role would mainly be office-based to enable interaction and collaboration with colleagues across our team.

If this opportunity is of interest, please send your CV and a short intro note along with your salary expectations to Julia Koppitz, Editorial Director, at julia@wearewhitefox.com

Production Manager

Whitefox Publishing Ltd, London
Full-time, Permanent
Publisher
Administration, Publishing, Production, Communications, Business Development, Digital Production
Reference: 
Production Manager

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We’re looking for an individual with experience across pre-press and press production processes for both b&w and full-colour book production experience.