Operations Manager – Printing & Advertising (Corporate Accounts)

Job Summary

The Operations Manager is responsible for managing end-to-end operations for corporate accounts in a printing and advertising company. This role ensures that client requirements are fully understood, provides expert recommendations, prepares accurate offers/quotations, follows up with clients to secure confirmed orders, and over sees production and delivery/installation to meet quality, budget, and deadline targets.

The ideal candidate combines strong client-facing account management skills with hands-on print, signage, and advertising production knowledge.

Key Responsibilities

Corporate Account & Client Management

• Serve as the primary operational point of contact for assigned corporate accounts.
• Conduct client meetings, briefings, and site surveys to fully understand requirements, objectives, brand guidelines, budgets, and deadlines.
• Ask clarifying questions and document detailed specifications, including dimensions, materials, finishes, quantities, artwork, and installation needs.
• Provide adequate and professional recommendations on printing methods, substrates, large-format signage, displays, promotional items, packaging, and advertising solutions.
• Prepare and present accurate cost estimates, quotations, offers, proposals, and tenders for specific tasks or projects.
• Follow up consistently with clients on quotations, approvals, purchase orders, artwork, and feedback to ensure orders are placed.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with corporate clients to encourage repeat business and account growth.
• Identify upsell and cross-sell opportunities within existing accounts.
• Handle client escalations, complaints, and change requests professionally.

Operations & Production Execution

· Convert approved client orders into detailed job tickets and production schedules.
· Coordinate prepress, proofing, printing, fabrication, finishing, installation, and delivery activities.
· Monitor production progress to ensure jobs are completed on time, within budget, and to required quality standards.
· Conduct quality checks and ensure proofs and final outputs match client specifications.
· Manage relationships with external vendors and suppliers for outsourced services.
· Ensure delivery and installation are executed properly and that clients provide final sign-off.
· Control job costs, track profitability, and minimize waste, rework, and delays.
· Maintain accurate records in CRM, ERP, or print management systems.
· Prepare operational reports on account status, production performance, and delivery metrics.
· Develop and enforce standard operating procedures for account handling and production workflows.
· Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Team & Vendor Management

· Lead, train, and supervise production staff and account coordinators.
· Allocate work, set priorities, and monitor team performance.
· Negotiate pricing, timelines, and service levels with vendors.
· Foster a culture of accountability, quality, and continuous improvement.

Compensation

· Salary: 45,000

Department: Operations / Client Services
Reports To: [General Manager / Director of Operations]
Supervises: Production Team, Account Coordinators, Vendors/Suppliers
Location: Addis Ababa