Description
HarperCollins Christian Publishing is seeking a talented and experienced Senior Production Director to play a key leadership role within our production function. Reporting to the VP, Production, this role combines strategic leadership with hands-on expertise across print production, supplier management, scheduling, quality control, and cost optimization.
This position plays a central role in delivering high-quality products on time and within budget, while fostering a high-performing, collaborative team environment. The Senior Production Director will support team development, help shape production strategy, drive continuous improvement, and ensure operational excellence across the publishing program.
Occasional international travel is required in this role. Current estimates are 3 – 4 times a year with typical trips lasting up to a week.
This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious production professional looking to operate at a senior level at a globally recognized industry leading publishing group.
This role is considered a "player/coach" position and is a full-time remote opportunity.
Requirements
Leadership & Team Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of production professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
Set clear goals aligned with organizational priorities and ensure effective allocation of resources
Conduct regular one-on-one meetings, performance reviews, and support career development and succession planning
Partner with the VP, Production to define and implement departmental strategy
Act as a key escalation point for production, supplier, and quality-related issues
Production & Schedule Management
Oversee and maintain production schedules for assigned titles, ensuring timely delivery of new publications and reprints
Lead or participate in weekly production meetings and communicate updates to stakeholders
Collaborate with Inventory and suppliers to optimize lead times, improve turnover, and support inventory goals
Negotiate expedited timelines when necessary
Vendor Management
Build and manage strong relationships with print suppliers
Clearly communicate expectations for quality, cost, schedule, and service
Monitor supplier performance and address issues proactively
Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers, including managing test orders
Encourage innovation by partnering with suppliers on new formats, materials, and cost-saving solutions
Quality Control
Define and uphold quality standards across all products and suppliers
Ensure all specifications and purchase orders are accurate and complete
Oversee proofing processes and ensure approvals from editorial and design teams
Troubleshoot production issues and implement timely, cost-effective solutions
Communicate clearly with stakeholders when quality issues arise
Cost Control & Financial Management
Develop cost-effective product specifications and manufacturing plans
Analyze quotes and negotiate competitive pricing with suppliers
Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities across formats, materials, and processes
Provide accurate cost estimates and support financial planning
Apply understanding of key financial metrics (e.g., P&L, PPB, turnover, fill rate) to improve performance
Continuous Improvement & Innovation
Drive process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce errors
Stay informed about new production technologies and implement where beneficial
Maintain and update process documentation
Represent Production in cross-functional initiatives and system implementations
Stakeholder Engagement
Build strong cross-functional relationships with editorial, design, sales, inventory, and finance teams
Act as a trusted production partner across publishing divisions
Support leadership reporting and communication of production updates
Sustainability
Champion sustainability initiatives within production operations
Promote responsible sourcing, carbon reduction, and ethical manufacturing practices
Ensure supplier compliance with environmental and ethical standards
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Experience
12+ years of experience in book production within publishing
6+ years of recent proven leadership and team management experience
Bible manufacturing experience preferred but not required
Education
College degree or equivalent work experience required.
Industry Knowledge
Deep knowledge of the print manufacturing processes, book specifications, paper, materials, and supply chain.
Experience working with both domestic and overseas vendors.
Skills
Strong financial and analytical skills, including budgeting and cost control
Excellent project management and organizational skills
Strong communicator and collaborator, able to work effectively across departments and with external partners
Advanced proficiency in Excel for reporting and analysis
Personal Attributes
Strong, confident leader who develops high-performing teams
Highly organized with strong attention to detail
Proactive, resilient, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
Effective negotiator
Passionate about publishing and production excellence
Apply online: https://careers-harpercollins.icims.com/jobs/5323/sr.-production-director/job
