Manager, Production Design (National Geographic)

5319 National Geographic Partners PAY SVC; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 115,500 - 154,800; Full time

Job summary

National Geographic Partners PAY SVC is seeking a senior production leader to guide a team of production specialists and drive scheduling, proofing, and release readiness across multiple publications.

The role requires deep expertise in print production, Adobe InDesign, and strong cross-functional collaboration to resolve issues with Design, Editorial, Photo, and vendor partners. A bachelor's degree in a related field is required.

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.

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.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Publishing, Communications, or related field

Advanced degree in Publishing, Graphic Design, Production Management, or related discipline

Tools

Adobe InDesign

K4

Job description

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 offered will take into account internal equity and 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.