Senior Print Graphic Designer (Bilingual JP/ENG)

Senior Print Graphic Designer (Bilingual Japanese-English)

Full-time

The Role:

The Studio Manager will work closely with mechanical artists, project management and print production teams to ensure mechanical production requirements are met and the highest possible quality standards are adhered to. The Studio Manager will also work closely with the Global Channel team to drive forward global efficiency intiatives in-GEO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage workflow across the agency print studio and accurately forecast resources and needs based on scope and timelines projection from Project Management
• Manage all the workflow of the busy agency print studio
• Track production detailed production data and provide efficiency analysis
• Inspire and proactively strive to get the best out of each team member, offer coaching and new opportunities to expand skill-sets
• Organise teamwork, create a balanced work schedule and ensure people are able to deliver results
• Continuously work on development and implementation of process improvements
• Oversee all project requirements from artwork to print production and take ownership of quality standards and QC processes
• Oversee communications with account service and print production teams and resolve any problems with artwork that may arise
• Create and maintain a strong pool of freelance production artists
• Ensure the best external talent is always used where necessary through both interviews and test project work. Liaise with agency SMEs to ensure they pass relevant tests
• Ensure GAD/AD/Production Director is aware of any potential/current issues and proposed solutions (including potential delays) to ensure swift resolution and manage further escalation
• Work with the global SMEs and GEO Studio Managers to identify and implement efficiency initiatives
• Maintain and improve file management process and procedures
• Lead training of new team members
• Collate and dispatch all materials required for printers and/or client

Requirements:

• Extensive experience in a studio environment, in which at least 3 years of studio management experience is required
• Bachelor’s degree required in a design related discipline, such as graphic design, visual communication, information design, or interaction design
• Solid time management, planning and organisation skills
• Experienced in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop
• Good knowledge of print, colour retouching, and digital artwork production
• Excellent organisational skills, and outstanding project and time management skills
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Native level Japanese speaker. Proficiency in written and oral English is preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, demanding, creative, and production environment. Flexibility is key to this role as well as working beyond the 9:00-18:00 framework and occasionally on weekends
• Must be able to work on-site at the client office in Tokyo when required
• Understanding of the Japanese market

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