Print Production Group (PPG) Project Manager I

Summary Description

• Print Production Group (PPG) is the category expert for maintaining high quality, regulatory compliant, on‑time execution of all printed product packaging for Refresco North America. PPG guides each packaging component through print production stages, providing technical expertise and project management services, resulting in the highest quality packaging in the beverage industry.
• Reporting to the Process Execution Manager, the PPG Project Manager 1 manages efficient print production workflows and develops timely, consistent communication with Design, Commercialization, Customers, Separation/Plate Making/Print vendors for all North American product launches or revisions of printed packaging components produced on Refresco manufacturing lines.

• Supports Commercialization and Procurement Teams so each project initiative is efficiently prioritized within the PPG workflow, based on Top Refresco Accounts and priority projects. Works independently to set and maintain priorities and meet deadlines.
• Account Responsibilities for PM1:
  Manages about 10 active accounts, including primary ownership of assigned Top Refresco Accounts. Learns to manage accounts to understand the full PPG workflow process and develop vendor communication skills.
• Independently gathers relevant preliminary information, reviews ACE project notes, and inputs initial project information into the PPG Database.
• Initiates PPG artwork setups from ACE assignments, creates new project tasks in the PPG Database, audits artwork proofs, coordinates internal/external art reviews, and facilitates transfer of art files to vendors. Maintains project status throughout the project life cycle.
• Performs ACE tasks for PPG Reviews and adds pre‑press costs for assigned accounts. Creates purchase orders in SAP and secures additional vendor quotes for ACE pre‑press tasks.
• Develops and maintains strong vendor relations with all Refresco print vendors, separators, and graphic suppliers. Communicates project timing and deadline expectations with vendors.
• Print Production Consultant for CoPack projects:
  Advises on artwork setup and printability issues whenever requested by the Commercialization Manager.
• Assists PM2 with monitoring ongoing print quality control for all Refresco print initiatives. Coordinates receipt of print samples, reviews quality, and participates in quality review discussions.

• Basic understanding of the packaging print production process and print types (Flexography, Lithography, Dry Offset, Roto‑Gravure).
• Fundamental project management skills.
• Good organizational and time‑management skills.
• Basic working knowledge of both Macintosh and PC computers. Fluent in Microsoft Word and Excel. Basic understanding of Photoshop and Illustrator is an asset.

• Sound analytical skills matched with business acumen.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills; able to present information and respond to questions from senior management.
• Strong people and collaboration skills.
• Ability to prioritize, multi‑task, and manage a fast‑paced schedule; thrives in high‑volume, fast‑paced environments.

• An associate’s degree is required; a bachelor’s degree is preferred, preferably in Business, Marketing, Design, Graphic Arts, or Commercial Studies.
• 0–3 years of print production experience preferred.
• Private label/consumer package goods industry experience or knowledge preferred.
• Experience in a manufacturing/procurement/supply‑chain environment preferred.
• Experience with SAP preferred.

• Physical:
  Regular requirement to sit, enter data at a computer, stand, walk, and operate within an office. Minimal travel may be required.
• Visual/Sensory:
  Requires long hours in…