Design and Production Manager

Job Summary

Getty Publications is seeking a Design and Production Manager to lead our design and production team and oversee the development of a wide range of high-quality illustrated art books in the fields of art, photography, archaeology, architecture, conservation, cultural heritage, and the humanities. We publish approximately 25 to 30 books annually that result from or complement Getty exhibitions, research projects, collections, and archives. These publications, available in both print and digital formats, include exhibition catalogues, archival and collection-focused works, scholarly monographs, trade titles, and books for children and young adults.

As a key member of the Getty Publications team and reporting to the Publisher, the Design and Production Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing Getty’s publications, which are known for their high editorial and production standards, inspired design, and lasting impact. Getty offers a collegial and collaborative environment where work-life balance is prioritized. Staff members can choose to participate in community service and serve on committees on diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, mentorship and community building, and sustainability.

Please Note: Los Angeles area residency is required. This position is NOT fully remote and, after an initial period of being in the office full-time, operates on a hybrid in-office and work-from-home schedule.

Major Job Responsibilities

• Work with the Getty Publications staff and colleagues around Getty to develop print and digital book projects from concept to delivery, focusing on specifications, design strategy, manufacturing budgets, and production schedules.
• Manage design and production workflow, shaping procedures and standards to ensure that publications are produced on time, within budget, and meet quality-control standards.
• Oversee the planning and scheduling of individual projects, maintaining a master calendar for all Getty Publications in development.
• Develop and manage individual book budgets and the Design and Production Department budget. Review and oversee the processing of all paperwork and invoices related to design and production.
• Solicit manufacturing estimates, select vendors, and negotiate terms for a wide range of projects varying in scale, scope, and production requirements.
• Supervise an in-house design and production staff of seven. Oversee their work, guide them in resolving issues and troubleshooting problems, and monitor and evaluate their performance.
• Work with in-house design and production staff to identify and contract with freelance vendors, including designers, production coordinators, typesetters, and illustrators.
• Coordinate with printers and shipping vendors to arrange for the safe, timely, and economical delivery of Getty Publications to the Getty’s Los Angeles warehouse and to the warehouses of our domestic and overseas distributors and publishing partners.
• Stay informed about vendors, technology, and standards for image capture, pre-press, digital and print production, and digital conversion.
• Manage all Getty image assets and archival files.
• Stay updated on industry standards and regulations regarding sustainability, accessibility, and safety, ensuring compliance in all production activities. Implement and monitor sustainable production processes to minimize environmental impact. Ensure all digital publications adhere to accessibility standards. Develop procedures for comprehensive record keeping to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Oversee an active reprint program (print, short run digital, and print-on-demand editions).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• 10 years experience in design or production management of illustrated books, preferably 5 or more years within the field of museum or art book publishing
• Management experience at a museum, university, or commercial press, with demonstrated leadership experience, project and budget management skills, and ability to create a positive and productive team environment

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The ideal candidate will have a passion for art and publishing, a broad understanding of the entire publishing cycle, and at least ten years of experience working in book production on highly illustrated books. In addition, the candidate should possess:

• In-depth understanding of design, pre-press, and international manufacturing processes for illustrated print and digital books and extensive experience soliciting and interpreting manufacturing estimates and negotiating terms.
• Extensive experience with color management, including imaging standards, color separation, and image proofing. Experience supervising press checks domestically and overseas.
• Strong project management and leadership skills, with the ability to create a positive and productive team environment.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a wide range of colleagues, collaborators, and vendors both inside and outside the organization.
• Knowledge of current digital publishing technologies and digital workflow in print and digital publishing, with the ability to develop and integrate new strategies in response to changing circumstances and technologies.
• Experience managing designers and the design process for highly complex art book projects.
• Experience managing sustainability and accessibility practices in publishing.
• Strong negotiating, problem-solving, math, and budget management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong organizational skills, ability to manage complex projects, and to prioritize and adapt to shifting deadlines and priorities.
• Computer skills in a Mac environment with proficiency in Photoshop, InDesign, and Excel.
• Museum publishing experience a plus.
• Some travel is required.

Benefits and Perks

Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
• 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan – with up to 5% Getty Match
• Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
• Educational Assistance and professional development
• Paid Vacation, Sick, and Personal Days
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Many positions have bi-weekly Off-Fridays
• On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center
• Community service opportunities

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR.