Associate Project Manager Operations

POSITION SUMMARY
The Associate Project Manager position is an entry level project manager opportunity responsible for support in implementing projects in a Production environment. The responsibilities include partnering with internal departments and external parties to ensure adherence to project expectations. This position supports The Upper Deck Company’s business units by helping Project Managers on all levels of Trading Card projects. This person will complete small projects independently while learning to run more complex projects.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an individual assigned to this job. Other duties may be assigned.

• Attend Product Pre-Launch, to insure expectation successfully achieved.
• Posts PDD (Product Definition Document) and PPU (Planned Production Update) from Brand, after Project Manager reviewed for accuracy and then post.
• Work with Brand, Packaging Engineer and Purchasing to ensure buyout items are on hand prior to pack out. Including auto labels, Security stickers, void stickers, and other buyout items
• Strong organizational, editing and proofreading skills with the ability to handle multiple, high priority projects with a keen attention to detail. .
• Masters all production-related processes to support the individual product, to include quality control of printed material, foil stamping and die cutting, Quality Assurance and Redemptions.
• Responsible for assisting in communication with Print Manufacturer and Finishing partners to meet or exceed scheduled print production durations, Pack-out and Product Release dates.
• Timely submitted RFQ (Request for Quote) for preliminary quotes for outside print vendors once post-engineering PDD (Product Definition Document) has posted.
• Attend Case checks – focusing on loop and pack placement expectations
• Keep an accurate list of EOJ cards for Marketing when needed
• Creates and takes ownership of Form Costing accuracy, responsibly communicates and timely updates document as needed for assigned projects
• Attend Minus 1, Engineering and Kickoff meetings for specific projects, as well as additional meetings that may be necessary in order to resolve challenges that arise during the production cycle.
• Assist in the development and improvement of production processes and tools.

INTERACTION
This position will interact closely with the NC Project Manages, Product Development and Brand, Sports and/or Entertainment Coordinator, Purchasing, Packaging Engineer, Game Used Manager, Quality Assurance Manager and Project Manager in California.
EDUCATION/YEARS EXPERIENCE

• 1+ years of experience in project coordination.
• College Degree in Business preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to perform duties under minimal supervision while exercising reasonable discretion and independent judgment.
• Accomplished written communication skills.
• Hands on, energetic and motivated self-starter with the ability to work additional hours as required.
• Professional demeanor; team player orientation. Ability to interface with internal parties at all levels.
• Knowledge of trading card or trading card game industry is a plus.
• Working knowledge of basic budgeting.
• Effective organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple, high priority projects with a dedicated attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, problem solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency in the following software or systems beneficial: MS Office.