Print Buyer / Specialist

The primary role of the Print Specialist is to execute the Quad print procurement process as defined for his/her category and assigned clients. In this role, the Print Specialist will be responsible for managing assigned projects in the in-store print channel from initiation through delivery.

Job Description:

The Print Specialist, In-Store is expected to develop his/her experience in print purchasing and project management and gain a solid understanding of print industry standards and practices to further the print production goals of Quad and its Clients. The Print Specialist is also expected to learn and maintain knowledge of all aspects of his/her assigned print category including the production processes, substrates, and industry practices for that category.

With this knowledge, The Print Specialist will ensure that all incoming requests for quote meet the minimum requirements for estimating and that all specifications represent the best value proposition for the project. The Print Specialist will ensure accuracy and standardization of all estimates and purchase orders for his/her assigned projects.

Once a project has been awarded, the Print Specialist will be responsible for managing the project from production through delivery and billing. The Print Specialist will ensure that all available Quad and vendor resources are aligned to produce each project in a streamlined, cost-effective manner with the highest degree of quality.


Quad Expectations:

Quad expects that the Print Specialist will act at all times to maintain the highest level of ethics, professionalism and personal performance possible. The Print Specialist is responsible for understanding and following the goals and philosophies of Print Management and Quad in general. The Print Specialist must be receptive to growth and change, take a curious and objective approach to new processes & technologies. He or she will work enthusiastically to meet or exceed all performance goals set by Quad and will fully support Quad’s relationship with its Clients.

The Print Specialist will work to ensure that Quad’s position in the print purchasing market is one that benefits both Quad and its Clients. Similarly, the Print Specialist must be aware of the profitability of Quad and ensure that projects run smoothly to maximize profit while lowering Client expenses. When required, the Print Specialist must meet directly with Quad’s Clients and exhibit a sense of professionalism and urgency and exude a confidence in being a representative for his/her category.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure that Client Services receives the highest level of service on every project

• Maintain recurring Client reports and understand nuances of each assigned Client

• Leverage and consistently develop industry expertise in the in-store print category (substrates, production methods, supplier capabilities, etc.)

• Manage projects in an efficient, timely, and cost-effective manner

• Multitask and prioritize tasks by urgency

• Set goals and achieve them by a stated date/time

• Take an analytical approach to problem solving

• Develop quick and creative solutions for production issues

• Review incoming RFQs for completeness and provide informed recommendations where needed to ensure completeness of spec data that is sent to market for pricing

• Review preliminary estimates for accuracy, price, and margin, comparing to historical information when available.

• Provide complete and accurate purchase orders to vendors

• Complete all job tasks accurately and on-time

• Effectively manage key milestones of production

• Ensure quality samples are delivered by required date/time

• Ensure tracking numbers are delivered by required date/time

• Ensure billing folders are turned over to Accounting in an accurate and timely manner

• Perform other responsibilities as outlined by category leadership

• Maintain a respectful relationship with employees

• Meet regularly with category leadership to discuss category and department initiatives

• Work with category leadership to maintain standards for quality, production methods, and pricing for the category

• Work with the category leadership to advance industry knowledge through trade groups, seminars, plant visits

Education and Experience:

• 2-4 year college degree or equivalent

• 0-3 years of experience in print purchasing or related industry

• Ability to speak, read and write in the English language

• Strong knowledge of production processes for his/her category

• Strong knowledge of print/paper/logistics industry practices

System Skills Required:

• Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint

• Experience with print project management software

• Experience with digital and mobile communications (email, cell phone, remote server access, etc.)

Travel:

• Travel as required by department leadership.

• Temporary assignments (out-of-town)

Additional Company Information 

We offer excellent benefits to eligible employees, including 401(k), holidays, vacations and more.

Quad is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We are committed to creating a place of belonging — a space where employees do not need to sacrifice who they are to exist and grow in our workplace. Quad does not discriminate on any unlawful basis including race, religion, color, national origin, disability, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local laws.  Quad also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories.

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