Senior Production Manager

We Value What Makes You, You

IMS is committed to building and maintaining a team that reflects the diverse consumer base and communities that we serve. We know that when our associates are empowered to bring their whole selves to work, they feel valued and appreciated, and bring better results for our clients. We strive to build a culture that rewards people for their unique perspectives and contributions, and where our people are connected - to the work we do, to each other, and to IMS.

Who Are You?

You think critically and solve problems. You can handle a variety of tasks and work on multiple projects at once.

Additionally, you embody the IMS principles of Passion, Collaboration, Integrity, Inventiveness, and Proactivity. You will be part of a team that strives to provide excellent service and thought leadership to our clients and want to bring your best to the organization and see your work brought to life.

What’s the Opportunity?

IMS is currently seeking a Senior Production Manager for our Skokie, IL office. The Senior Production Manager leads end-to-end oversight of production strategy, sourcing, and execution for client marketing programs. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence across all phases of development and delivery for print, display, and branded merchandise initiatives. Acting as a senior liaison between clients, suppliers, and cross-functional internal teams, the Senior Production Manager ensures seamless execution while optimizing cost, quality, and timelines.

Responsibilities Include:

Strategic Leadership & Client Partnership

• Serve as a senior liaison between internal teams and clients, translating marketing objectives into clear, executable production strategies.
• Lead the development of complex, multi-channel program specifications by collaborating closely with Account Management and client stakeholders.
• Present high-impact production solutions and innovations to clients that align with brand objectives, consumer engagement strategies, and budget requirements.
• Maintain a client-centric mindset by ensuring proactive communication, transparency, and high-quality service across all stages of project execution.
• Provide strategic recommendations that enhance production value—identifying opportunities for cost reduction, process efficiency, and quality improvement.
• Oversee the execution of a broad portfolio of production categories, including print collateral, temporary and permanent displays, branded merchandise, and experiential components.
• Mentor and develop junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning, accountability, and performance excellence.
  
  
  

Operational Excellence & Project Oversight

• Ensure rigorous adherence to internal production workflows, procurement processes, and financial compliance standards.
• Oversee RFQ processes, vendor negotiations, and supplier performance within a strategic sourcing framework to support long-term vendor partnerships and value delivery.
• Evaluate project complexity and assign the most suitable suppliers, balancing innovation, capability, cost, and timeline to meet client expectations.
• Drive execution of projects against detailed production schedules, ensuring key milestones and delivery dates are consistently met or exceeded.
• Establish, monitor, and manage project budgets, ensuring financial accuracy, margin protection, and fiscal responsibility across all jobs.
• Issue and manage purchase orders, oversee end-to-end production timelines, and ensure flawless execution through final delivery and post-production review.
  
  
  

The Skills And Experience You Have

The ideal candidate will demonstrate advanced expertise in production management across print, retail displays, and branded merchandise, with a strategic mindset and a proven track record of leading complex programs from concept to delivery.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, with a demonstrated history of progressive leadership in production, sourcing, or operations roles.
• 10 years of experience in marketing production, with deep knowledge of print, point-of-sale materials, and both temporary and permanent retail displays.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage large-scale, multi-channel programs with multiple stakeholders.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build strong relationships across all levels of the business.
• Strategic thinker with sharp analytical and critical thinking skills; adept at solving complex production challenges and identifying operational efficiencies.
• Advanced project management capabilities with a focus on risk mitigation, timeline adherence, and financial accountability.
• Comfortable managing multiple high-priority projects in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
• Demonstrates leadership presence, resilience under pressure, and a collaborative approach to team management and client service.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with the ability to interpret and manage budgets, timelines, and supplier data effectively.
  
  
  

What We Offer

In addition to playing an important role at IMS, you'll receive:

• Competitive salary
• Medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match
• Generous PTO policy
• Robust peer recognition program
• Training and development opportunities
• Commitment to growing and enhancing our organizational culture
  
  
  

Salary Range for this job is $83,000 to $95,000 - The salary range provided in this job posting is an estimate based on market data and internal equity. Final compensation will be determined based on knowledge, skills, experience, location, and other relevant factors, such as certain certifications that may be desired for this role.

IMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer



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