Associate Director of Production & Manufacturing

About the Role

Simon & Schuster is seeking an Associate Director of Production and Manufacturing to support the adult publishing division. This role leads a team of production managers and works closely with senior leadership to oversee a broad frontlist manufacturing program, including one-, two-, and four-color hardcover and paperback originals and conversions. The Associate Director is responsible for all aspects of book manufacturing for the frontlist program, with a focus on operational efficiency, workflow consistency, staff development, vendor coordination, and risk mitigation. This role serves as a key liaison across internal departments and external vendors and requires strong communication, deep production expertise, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex work at scale.

Responsibilities

• Oversee manufacturing for Adult frontlist titles across assigned imprints.
• Lead, mentor, and develop staff.
• Partner with leadership on workload planning, title allocation, and departmental priorities.
• Monitor project timelines and ensure risks are identified, escalated, and mitigated as early as possible.
• Support new imprint launches and ensure operational readiness.
• Troubleshoot complex scheduling, manufacturing, vendor, and workflow issues.
• Guide the creation and maintenance of accurate title specifications in internal systems.
• Oversee purchase order issuance, cost tracking, and budget awareness across projects.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with domestic and international vendors.
• Identify opportunities to improve workflows, increase efficiency, reduce costs, and reinforce best practices.
• Partner with internal stakeholders across Production, Demand Planning, Sales, and Operations to align on priorities and strategy.
• Support consistency of manufacturing practices across imprints and title types.

Requirements

• 10+ years of book production or manufacturing experience, including experience with complex and illustrated titles.
• Proven experience leading, mentoring, or managing staff.
• Deep knowledge of book printing, binding, scheduling, costing, and manufacturing workflows.
• Experience managing domestic and international vendors.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to oversee multiple high-priority initiatives.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Adobe Acrobat, and title management systems preferred.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan
• Life insurance coverage
• Disability benefits
• Tuition assistance program
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Access to the Broad Based Ownership program, which makes all employees partners in shared success

Pay

The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York City, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.