K-12 Operations & Inventory Lead for Custom Publishing

Kendall Hunt Publishing Company; Dubuque (IA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Kendall Hunt Publishing is seeking a highly organized K-12 Operations Manager to lead inventory planning, custom publishing operations, vendor management, and cross-functional coordination within our K-12 division. This role requires strong problem-solving, communication, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while supporting strategic initiatives across Sales, Product Development, and Marketing.

This position emphasizes collaboration with internal teams, vendor management, and strategic

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university; or two to four years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, analyze operational data, and collaborate across departments.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet, word processing, and internet-based software applications.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel as needed.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage K-12 product inventory levels and monitor inventory performance.
• Forecast inventory needs with the Director of Sales to understand adoption status and forecast inventory needs.
• Recommend initial print runs and reprint quantities to K-12 leadership.
• Evaluate and make recommendations regarding obsolete inventory.
• Manage relationships with kit vendors to ensure quality products and services.
• Coordinate with Product Development to identify and implement vendor solutions.
• Monitor inventory levels at vendor locations and manage purchase orders.
• Identify and establish relationships with new vendors to support business needs.
• Serve as the primary project manager for custom publishing opportunities.
• Coordinate custom publishing projects across internal departments and provide cost and pricing analysis.
• Support product launches and revisions through cross-functional coordination with Sales, Product Development, and Marketing teams.
• Assist with annual pricing reviews and product pricing updates.
• Ensure alignment across departments regarding launch schedules, inventory requirements, and customer communications.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Project coordination

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Spreadsheet software

Word processing software

Internet-based software

Job description

Kendall Hunt Publishing is seeking a highly organized K-12 Operations Manager to lead inventory planning, custom publishing operations, vendor management, and cross-functional coordination within our K-12 division. This role requires strong problem-solving, communication, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while supporting strategic initiatives across Sales, Product Development, and Marketing.

This position emphasizes collaboration with internal teams, vendor management, and strategic