The Project Director is responsible for the execution and completion of the branded projects at or below estimated costs within the approved timeline. The PD becomes primary contact during production and updates the key functional areas. The PD works closely with and provides detailed direction and follow up to numerous internal support functions including purchasing, finance and accounting, design/creative as well as working with third-party vendors and direct account contacts, as needed.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Involved from in the initial concept discussions through completion of project
Provide technical knowledge to influence design, working with third party vendors to create sketches, specifications and prototypes to meet the project requirements in features, quality, and commitment dates.
Receive from vendors and prepare project estimate/quote information. Outline CWA commitments required, noting risk or uncertainty in the quoted costs and lead times.
Follow Project Management SOPs as defined and amended
Oversee, track and manage all aspects with clear and trackable communication both internally and externally projects with clear stage and completion deliverables
Communicate accurately and effectively with internal stakeholders keeping them informed of the critical dates and project progress
Prepare a component sheet for each project and work with purchasing to secure outside materials and services noting receiving QC requirements and who will perform the receiving QC check.
Provide fulfillment (distribution) with samples for assemblies and sub-assemblies, component sheets and packing/shipping requirements.
Responsible for scheduling and holding the project kickoff meeting for each project, agenda to follow SOP guidelines.
Manage the art proofing process, obtain stakeholder approval on all art prior to production, notify internal and external teams of any art changes throughout the process.
Process change-orders per SOP, assess the scope, pricing and timeline impacts, obtain written approval of changes to scope, pricing and timeline. Notify sales leads of any proposed changes to scope, pricing or timeline before communicating with customer.
Periodically monitor both manufacturing and fulfillment quality and progress while the project is actively being worked.
Monitor fulfillment activities to ensure product is assembled, packaged and delivered to client's locations free of damage.
Prepare various labels required for each project.
Organizing shipping lists to format according to the shipping method and tracking shipping for each project. Provide shipping/freight details to Shipping and Receiving, verify the shipment was executed as required.
At the end of each project, update file with any modifications or changes implemented during the project to ensure an accurate record exists of what was produced.
Prepare a postmortem of projects within 10 days of project end highlighting results and lessons learned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Candidate should be mechanically inclined, able to contribute to functional design challenges.
Solid "instincts" for problem-solving, collaboration, and teamwork.
Demonstrated detail-oriented organizational and communication skills.
Proactive, with an ability to sell one's ideas in a confident manner.
Ability to manage details, prioritize work and work independently and with a sense of urgency.
Top-notch interpersonal skills, both written and oral.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Associate or bachelor's degree in a relevant field is desirable but not required and 5 plus years' relevant experience in manufacturing, design, industrial design, and/or project management, or equivalent combination of education and experience.