Display & Retail Production Manager

Display & Retail Production Manager

Continuum is not your typical marketing execution and creative services company. We work as an extension of our clients' teams, delivering custom, physical marketing solutions – from direct mail and print to in-store and experiential – in ways that make budgets go further and drive better results. This is a place where you can do meaningful work, be part of the team, and help our clients grow.

As a Display & Retail Production Manager you will lead the end-to-end development and execution of retail marketing displays and supporting materials for a leading trade publisher. This includes corrugated displays, risers, signage, and integrated campaign components used in retail and event environments. You will define structural and print specifications, advise marketing teams on display formats, materials, pack-out configurations, and feasibility, and ensure outputs meet quality, durability, and cost objectives. You will manage complex production workflows that include structural design, prototyping, vendor coordination, assembly/pack-out, and distribution to retail locations. Additionally, you will own job setup, purchase order management, freight optimization (including multi-location distribution), and invoicing within the production management system. Working closely with internal teams, suppliers, and client stakeholders, you will ensure display programs are executed seamlessly from concept through in-store delivery.

This role is remote, with occasional travel to New York City, supplier facilities, and Continuum headquarters in Chicago, IL.

A typical week may look like this:

• Monday – Kick off the week by reviewing active production schedules, prioritizing projects, and aligning on key deadlines. Enter new jobs into the production management system and ensure all projects are properly set up for execution. Join a team status call to review open jobs, flag risks, and confirm next steps.
• Tuesday – Review supplier quotes for displays and components, including structural designs and prototypes. Evaluate materials, assembly requirements, and freight implications. Negotiate pricing across manufacturing and kitting components.
• Wednesday – Partner with the client's marketing and creative teams in project kickoff meetings. Translate campaign concepts into clear retail ready display solutions, identifying specifications, timelines, and potential risks early in the process.
• Thursday – Monitor production progress across multiple projects manufacturing, assembly/pack-out, and distribution. Conducting quality checks and troubleshooting any issues with vendors or logistics. Reconcile freight charges and coordinate with internal teams to resolve challenges and keep projects on track.
• Friday – Review project financials, including estimates vs. actuals. Finalize billing by validating costs and issuing customer invoices. Identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and efficiencies to enhance future execution.

Who are you?

• You are a retail display and production expert with experience in corrugated displays, merchandising units, and in-store marketing execution.
• You understand structural design, materials, and retail environments, and can translate creative ideas into feasible production solutions.
• You think holistically about manufacturing, assembly and distribution.
• You have strong commercial acumen – able to manage budgets, evaluate trade-offs, and drive cost efficiencies without compromising quality.
• You are highly organized and detail-oriented – able to develop and maintain production schedules, ensuring deadlines are met and projects stay on track.
• You are a problem-solver and effective communicator – adept at identifying problems, analyzing root causes, making quick decisions, and implementing effective solutions.
• You are client-focused – skilled at building strong client relationships and possess a deep commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of clients in a way that fosters trust and long-term partnership.

Experience/Qualifications:

• 7 + years of experience in production management, corrugated displays, retail fixtures, or point-of-sale (POS) marketing material
• Experience with purchasing and negotiating in a manufacturing, client, or agency setting
• Strong understanding of production processes (pre-press, printing, kitting, assembly, and pack-out workflows)
• Well versed in structural design concepts (CAD, dyelines, prototyping process)
• Proficient in creating print RFQs, bid analysis, and performance management
• Experience managing display manufacturers, co-packers, and 3PL distribution partners
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects while upholding quality standards
• Knowledge of retail compliance requirements and in-store execution constraints
• Experience with production management or ERP systems (e.g., print workflow or order management platforms)
• Strong financial acumen, including budget management, cost analysis, and reporting (advanced Excel required)
• Ability to meet deadlines under pressure and adapt to shifting priorities
• Bachelor's degree in marketing, business, or related field preferred
• Willingness to travel as needed

ESG Statement: We strive to make our world better by utilizing ingenuity and technology to minimize our environmental impact, cultivating a business that recognizes the intrinsic value of diversity and inclusion, and requiring accountability, transparency, and integrity in everything we do.

CJK Group is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.