Reporting to the Head of Operations, the Production Manager will plan and oversee the overall operation and workflow for our regular publications production processes in both print and digital formats; including the production of materials for Events, Conferences, Awards and Marketing, and any special projects. They will also be responsible for monitoring suppliers’ performance and will perform periodical assessments, including cost checking & quality control.

Responsibilities will include (but will not be limited to):

• Publications production *across all brands for both print & digital channels

• Map production scheduling, flat plan creation for all titles and supplements
• Generating specifications for creative project construction
• Materials sourcing and scheduling when needed including cost estimation and evaluation for add-on projects
• Advertisement output files / client files pre-fight check and error report
• Direct file specification troubleshooting with clients
• Verify qualified colour proofs for press colour matching
• Calibration of in-house digital printer and generating high standard colour proofs
• Sign-off blueprint and colour proofs before press; running sheets before binding and advanced copies before ex-factory
• Sign-off imposition plates for correction pages before press, last minute changes
• Keep status updated on progress report for review and evaluation purposes
• Monitoring overall production progress
• Liaison with other offices relating to licensed content & data

• Leading and improving the performance and standards of the Production Team, including the training & management of the Production Executive

• Acting as the central contact point for overall production enquiries
• Leading and controlling the production process to deliver high performance, in terms of quality, cost and turnaround efficiency
• Evaluating existing and potential vendors periodically with the Finance Team
• Ensuring an optimal mix of vendors to obtain competitive quality and cost levels
• Running regular meetings with core vendors, reviewing scheduling, performance, and planning for future projects, including looking at new ways of working together
• Investigating new vendors for digital platforms, digital printing, P.O.D. projects and marketing materials.

• Improving productivity, efficiency and effectiveness across all processes
• Supporting production across an increasing number of platforms, including being the main link & liaison with our E-magazine vendors & iPad co-ordination
• Designing and supporting new processes for new business opportunities & product launches

Core competencies

• Positive thinking, service-minded, results-oriented
• Experienced Project Manager with excellent organisation and problem solving skills
• Has worked effectively in a highly pressured environment
• Strong communicator, not easily swayed.
• Focused on a consistent high quality output
• Excellent pre-press, colour management and print knowledge
• Technical understanding of the print production process & its pitfalls

Professional Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years experience in a similar environment (international or multinational company)
• Degree in Graphic Design and/or an Administrative Diploma
• Expert in various print materials and print methods, incl. offset, flexographic, digital, silk-screen & gravure
• Preferably staff management experience
• Proficient use of DTP software (adobe CS4) and Acrobat Professional
• A very good level of spoken & written English and Chinese
• Certified printing cost estimator
• Member of the Institute of Print-Media Professionals
• Candidates with less experience may be considered for a Production Executive role

This role is based in Central, Hong Kong. We offer attractive remuneration package and excellent career opportunities to the right candidate. Interested candidates are invited to send detailed CV with current and expected salary to HR@haymarket.asia

Applications will be treated in strictest confidence and your information will be used for recruitment purposes only.

Haymarket Media Group a global media, data information and analytics company.

The company has over 70 market-leading brands in 15 offices across six countries, connecting people and communities across print, digital, mobile and live media. Although Haymarket’s portfolio is diverse, our purpose is the same across borders and markets: to create trusted, premium specialist media brands that build powerful communities and drive valuable conversations.

It is this uncompromising focus that has earned the trust of millions worldwide. Haymarket’s brands include: What Car?, Campaign, PRWeek, MyCME and Finance Asia.