LVT is hiring a Senior Creative Services Specialist to deliver comprehensive consultative services for the development and production of print and direct mail materials. This role demands a high level of autonomy, problem-solving skills, and deep expertise in print support to ensure successful project outcomes.
What You'll Do
- Educate clients and stakeholders about Print Support Services, products, and tools.
- Collaborate with clients and account managers to assess communication needs and define project requirements.
- Provide strategic guidance and recommend cost-effective communication products.
- Advise designers on print and USPS specifications for design feasibility and postal compliance.
- Consult and recommend production schedules that meet project specifications, print requirements, and adhere to USPS delivery standards.
- Recommend optimal direct mail solutions and strategies based on USPS regulations and client objectives.
- Manage multiple projects concurrently with accountability for outcomes.
- Collaborate with creative teams during client reviews to align concepts with production schedules.
- Proactively resolve production issues and provide expert consultation to clients and Corporate Communications.
- Conduct thorough project analysis for scope, budget, and resource planning in alignment with project milestones.
- Determine cost-effective production methods and collaborate with external vendors to obtain accurate project estimates.
- Assign projects to external vendors based on capabilities, resources, and scheduling for optimal execution.
- Develop and communicate comprehensive production schedules that meet project objectives.
- Coordinate project execution and drive collaboration among creative teams, clients, and print vendors.
- Facilitate proof reviews and provide final production approval to vendors.
- Provide accurate tracking information for mailings and collateral from external vendors.
- Communicate and manage purchase order instructions to vendors for direct mail and template production.
- Manage print vendor relationships to ensure adherence to schedules and budgets.
- Develop and maintain positive, professional relationships with external suppliers.
- Address and resolve vendor issues related to service levels, quality, and costs, in compliance with established SLAs.
- Conduct quarterly vendor performance reviews.
- Evaluate and select appropriate vendors based on bids.
- Ensure timely processing and approval of invoices and purchase orders.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and audit guidelines for all external purchases.
- Ensure vendor compliance with accurate and timely data uploads for monthly reporting.
- Perform annual audits of vendor contracts and spending.
- Collaborate with sourcing teams for RFIs and RFQs.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of USPS regulations, rates, and promotional programs.
- Provide expert guidance on paper, inks, varnishes, specialty cuts, and finishing options.
- Offer informed production recommendations based on press specifications and project requirements.
- Consult with external vendors to stay informed on current print industry trends and advancements.
- Ensure all projects adhere to established graphic and corporate identity standards.
- Educate teammates and peers about corporate brand standards and brand compliance.
- Contribute to continuous improvement by suggesting and implementing new processes for Print Support.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Graphic Design, Communications, or a related field
- 4 years related work experience
- In lieu of Bachelor's degree and 4 years experience, High School/GED and 8 years related work experience
Nice to Have
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive process improvements
- Expertise in USPS regulations and print production requirements
- Mentoring and training abilities
- Strategic thinking skills
- In-depth knowledge of printing processes, direct mail strategies, and graphic design principles
- Extensive experience in print production management
- Thorough knowledge of print industry standards and best practices
- Deep understanding of print support operations and their interdependencies
- Experience in delivering effective presentations to diverse audiences
- Previous experience as a purchasing agent or procurement sourcing background
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint, Power BI
Technical Stack
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Power BI
Work Mode
This position operates on a hybrid schedule and is based in Charlotte.
LVT is an equal opportunity employer.
