Print Production Program Manager

REI (Recreational Equipment Inc.)•Seattle, WA

12h

About The Position

This position develops and drives the sourcing strategy, production, and distribution of all printed material for the co-op’s marketing programs, with an emphasis on our direct mail and catalog programs. The role manages cross-channel marketing campaigns and uses print production expertise to connect REI’s marketing initiatives, including direct mail and in-store experiences. By leading vendors and key stakeholders, this position ensures marketing efforts meet business goals, improve customer engagement, and deliver cost-effective, high-quality materials. The role influences strategic recommendations, manages annual budgets from $1MM to $15MM, mentors teams, and drives innovation in print production to enhance REI’s brand and customer connection. This role requires travel for regular press checks, approximately 4-6 times a year. This is an exciting chance to grow your career and help REI’s marketing programs succeed. If you are a professional in print production and care about innovation and sustainability, we invite you to apply.

Requirements

Proven expertise in print production management, with a deep understanding of industry standards, techniques, and best practices.
Exceptional history of managing large-scale print programs with multi-million-dollar budgets.
Experience negotiating contracts and managing vendor relationships.
Experience in producing direct mail and understanding postal regulations and promotional incentives.
Exceptional project management, organizational, and leadership skills, with the ability to mentor and guide cross-functional teams.
Advanced knowledge of color management, printing technologies, and production optimization.
Able to travel nationally for press checks when needed based on program needs.
Exceptional critical skills and experience using data to drive recommendations and improvements.
Deep understanding of sustainability practices in print production, with a focus on achieving CSR goals.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with both internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Manage the planning, production, and delivery of print materials for marketing channels. This includes advertising, direct mail, catalogs, flyers, in-store signage, membership materials, gift cards, and co-branded projects. Ensure quality control, meet deadlines, and manage the budget during the print production process.
Ensure strategies align with REI’s goals for customer acquisition, membership growth, and sales.
Develop and manage relationships with key print and fulfillment vendors, and external partners.
Manage contract negotiations and ensure that external partners meet REI’s quality, budget, and sustainability standards.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop cohesive print programs that leverage the strengths of each channel to maximize customer impact.
Own the bidding, planning, and purchasing process for all print materials, ensuring high-quality standards and efficient execution.
Manage the entire production workflow from creative execution through print production, manufacturing, fulfillment, and delivery. Optimize cost-effectiveness and ensure quality expectations.
Manage direct mail campaigns, such as catalogs, flyers, and self-mailers. Integrate current postal regulations and use available postal promotional incentives.
Ensure the seamless integration of printed marketing materials and in-store channels, which drives traffic and engagement across all platforms.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop cohesive print programs that leverage the strengths of each channel to maximize customer impact.
Manage the entire production workflow from creative execution to delivery. Optimize cost-effectiveness and ensure quality expectations during print production, manufacturing, and fulfillment.
Ensures color reproduction standards are met and improved through collaboration with postproduction partners.
Partner with channels to create multi-million-dollar budgets for marketing programs and print production. Ensure proper allocation and optimization of funds across initiatives.
Oversee invoices, billing, accruals, and budget reconciliation to track spending and ensure financial targets are met.
Seek opportunities to leverage volumes for program-wide cost benefits.
Collaborate closely with internal teams, such as creative, merchandising, and store operations. Ensure cohesive program execution and alignment with business goals. Oversee coordination and communication between teams and vendors. Ensure seamless delivery of work.
Ensure clear processes, hand-offs, and timelines are followed across teams and vendors.
Identify and reduce risks related to production timelines, quality control, or vendor performance. Proactively solve issues during print programs and marketing campaigns.
Identify and examine workflow challenges and recommend improvement opportunities that will streamline operational efficiencies.
Drive REI’s sustainability goals in marketing and print programs. Advocate for responsible production practices and source eco-friendly materials. Ensure all vendors align with REI’s sustainability values.
Influence internal and external stakeholders to prioritize initiatives that support REI’s social and environmental impact. Align program goals with REI’s mission of promoting sustainability and outdoor enjoyment.