Design Operations Manager

About the role

We are looking for a Design Operations Manager for an art and design company based in La Mirada, CA to streamline and oversee the execution systems for our dynamic Art Design team. This role is instrumental in managing diverse workloads, ensuring operational efficiency, and fostering collaboration across product launches, key accounts, and special programs. The ideal candidate will bring structure and clarity to fast-paced processes while maintaining momentum and driving accountability.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update the comprehensive Design roadmap, covering multiple workstreams such as product launches, key accounts, and trade shows.
• Lead weekly priority and status meetings, ensuring clear agendas, actionable decisions, and follow-ups.
• Monitor team capacity, identifying risks and blocked tasks to ensure smooth workflow prioritization.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, including milestones, dependencies, and handoffs to ensure timely delivery.
• Drive accountability by following up with stakeholders and escalating risks with actionable solutions.
• Manage intake processes and establish clear definitions for deliverables, such as production-ready files or account decks.
• Identify and document scope changes, ensuring proper approval and visibility to mitigate scope creep.
• Enhance cross-functional handoffs using standardized templates and checklists for improved collaboration.
• Oversee Smartsheet setup, automation, and reporting to ensure efficient tracking and communication.
• Provide leadership with real-time visibility into project progress and risks through trusted reporting tools.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years of experience in design operations, creative project management, or program management within a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with strict deadlines and competing priorities.
• Expertise in leading meetings and crafting clear written communication, including decision logs and action plans.
• Demonstrated experience collaborating with cross-functional teams, including sales, marketing, and production.
• Strong ability to navigate ambiguity and push for clarity and resolution in complex situations.
• Proficiency in Smartsheet and familiarity with creative workflows and Adobe-based production processes is preferred.
• Organized and proactive working style with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Effective at holding peers accountable and driving follow-through with professionalism.