Direct Mail & Direct Marketing SME (Subject Matter Expert)

Lahlouh•Blue Ash, OH

47d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Direct Mail Subject Matter Expert (SME) to join our commercial print team. This dual-role position is pivotal, serving as the critical link between our sales efforts and our manufacturing execution. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in direct mail strategy, postal regulations, data processing, and print production workflows. This person will directly contribute to revenue growth by enabling our sales team and improving profitability by optimizing our operational processes. In this role, you will be responsible for the entire lifecycle of direct mail and direct marketing products and initiatives, from concept development and strategy to testing, onboarding, optimization, execution, and analysis. In this role you will collaborate with Sales, Project Managers, internal teams, and our clients to ensure successful campaign executions. This position requires a strong working knowledge of data management, digital communications, and a working understanding of print and mail manufacturing and USPS service options.

Requirements

Experience: 5+ years of hands-on experience in the direct mail industry, preferably within a commercial print mail service provider environment or direct mail agency specializing in demand generation and campaign development.
Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of USPS regulations and postal logistics, including automation standards, mailing classes, and maximizing postal discounts.
Print Knowledge: Strong understanding of print production processes, specifically those relevant to direct mail (e.g., variable data printing (VDP), finishing, inserting, and ink-jetting).
Data Proficiency: Experience with direct mail data processing software, file formats, and data hygiene best practices (e.g., NCOA, CASS).
Communication Skills: Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the proven ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both non-technical sales staff and C-level clients.
Problem-Solving: Proven ability to analyze operational challenges and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.

Nice To Haves

Professional Certifications in Discounted Mail Preparation, LEAN and 5S very desirable.

Responsibilities

Serve as the go-to expert for the sales team and clients on all matters related to direct mail
Participate in high-value client meetings and proposal development as the technical and strategic direct mail lead.
Help translate client marketing goals into viable, cost-effective direct mail solutions.
Assist with scoping opportunities, closing deals, and facilitating the onboarding of new programs.
Review client programs/campaigns and make suggestions for improvement, upselling, ROI improvements, etc.
Collaborate with estimating to ensure accurate and competitive pricing based on optimized production and postal strategies.
Develop and deliver training to the sales team on new direct mail capabilities, regulations, and best practices to improve their ability to prospect and close opportunities.
Develop and present compelling product roadmaps and go-to-market strategies for new and existing direct mail offerings.
Develop and implement comprehensive direct marketing strategies aligned with overall business objectives.
Collaborate with clients & internal staff to create high-impact direct mail pieces that resonate with target audiences.
Work directly with the production, mailing, and finishing departments to ensure a seamless handoff of complex direct mail jobs.
Translate sales requirements and client specifications into clear, executable instructions for manufacturing.
Effectively communicate direct mail/direct marketing concerns/issues with, Sales, Project Managers, Production, Data Processing, and Pre-Press staff and/or customers in a professional manner, as needed.
Collaborate with customers and internal stakeholders to gather, document, and communicate business requirements for potential new technologies, software, or equipment that could enhance our direct mail capabilities, speed, and cost-efficiency.
Parter with Operations to translate these requirements into technical specifications and support their evaluation and recommendation process.
Ensure all direct mail projects adhere to the latest USPS regulations, internal quality standards, and client specifications.
Troubleshoot and resolve complex production or postal issues as they arise.
Oversee campaign execution across all channels, including vendor management and production.
Create and maintain documentation for all standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to direct mail production and data handling.