Manager, Production Design (National Geographic)

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Job Description:

Lead the print production team supporting National Geographic Magazine, Kids/Little Kids, Bookazines, and History publications, ensuring efficient workflows, high-quality output, and on-time release while maintaining design integrity and production excellence.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop a team of production specialists.
• Oversee production schedules, proofing cycles, and release readiness. Ensure files meet technical, prepress, and printer specifications.
• Partner with Design, Editorial, Photo, Graphics, and vendors to resolve issues.
• Maintain production standards, workflows, and quality control processes.
• Drive operational improvements and production efficiency across publications.

Basic Qualifications:

• Minimum 7 years of experience in print production, magazine publishing, or related media environments.
• Experience leading teams and managing complex production workflows.
• Advanced expertise in Adobe InDesign and print production processes.
• Strong project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting multiple publication brands or product lines.
• Knowledge of publishing workflow systems such as K4.
• Experience with printer/vendor management and release processes.
• Understanding of color correction, retouching, and image reproduction standards.
• Proven success improving workflows and production operations.

Required Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Publishing, Communications, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Education:

• Advanced degree or specialized training in Publishing, Graphic Design, Production Management, or a related discipline.

The hiring range for this position in Washington, D.C. is $115,500 to $154,800 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

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