Contractual Production Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Purpose of the Job

The Production Manager, Retail Displays is responsible for all aspects of production, purchasing and installation of client marketing programs. This person works with client stakeholders, suppliers, internal team members and external stakeholders to ensure projects are purchased and executed in a way that guarantees quality and competitive pricing while overseeing and executing a high volume of complex projects. 

This will be a hybrid position based in Chicago, IL. This role will be required to be on-site 2-3 days per week, with the ability to work from home the remaining days. 

Key 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. 
• Manage installations from beginning to end (including distribution when required), keeping in close contact with the scheduling department, sub-contractors, sales team, field supervisors and clients. 
• Troubleshoot any installation issues to determine the best solution for the client. 
• Manage installation report back to client for both issues and completed sites. 
• Input all project specifications and relevant data into an internal procurement system and maintain key data points in the system, including client quotes, purchase orders and invoices. 
• Execute projects within contract-specified timelines, according to budget requirements and quality standards. 
• Build relationships and communication channels with internal clients to ensure smooth workflows and handoffs. 
• Liaison between all necessary parties based on project scope – internal and external stakeholders, retailers and suppliers – to ensure quality and on-time delivery within budget. 
• Execute production and installations efficiently in accordance with the procedures described in business processes. 
• Identify and develop strategic solutions, which are both beneficial and economical for the client and HH Global. 
• Provide high quality customer service, communicating to internal clients with appropriate and relevant status updates. 
• Assist Account Managers in compiling account and project updates for key presentations as directed. 
• Escalate production and/or installation issues immediately to management. 
• Ensure goal tracking and achievement of SLAs and KPIs is consistent with client standards and contractual requirements and internal KPIs related to operational efficiency. 
• Handle a multitude of complex and diverse product-type categories from beginning-to-end, including fixture and graphic production, along with installation. 
• Create comprehensive installation instruction sheets and guides with support from suppliers based off project, fixture and retailer client requirements. 

Knowledge, Skills + Experience

• 3+ years of permanent and semi-permanent retail display production and installation experience. 
• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline or equivalent work experience. 
• Proven track record of successful purchasing experience in a manufacturing, client or agency environment. 
• Understanding and comprehension of engineering documents. 
• Experience with vendor negotiations and project management. 
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office software, specifically Excel. 
• 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 excelling within fast-paced, high-energy environments. 
• Up to 25% travel required; valid driver's license necessary.

Company Benefits

• Healthcare, Dental, Vision Insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• 401k with discretionary company match.
• 16 days of PTO with 9 company holidays + 3 floating holidays.

For Illinois based applicants: The US base salary range for this position is $60,000 to $65,000 annually. Actual compensation packages are based on a variety of factors that are unique to each candidate, including skill set, experience, education, certifications and work location. This range may be different in other locations due to differences in the cost of labor.  The total compensation package for this position may also include annual performance bonus targets, benefits and/or other applicable incentives in addition to base salary.