Design and Production Manager

Getty is committed to creating a welcoming workplace that reflects the various backgrounds of the communities we serve. We value differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Job Summary

Getty Publications is seeking a Design and Production Manager to lead our design and production team and oversee the development of a wide range of high-quality illustrated art books in the fields of art, photography, archaeology, architecture, conservation, cultural heritage, and the humanities. We publish approximately 25 to 30 books annually that result from or complement Getty exhibitions, research projects, collections, and archives. These publications, available in both print and digital formats, include exhibition catalogues, archival and collection-focused works, scholarly monographs, trade titles, and books for children and young adults.

 

As a key member of the Getty Publications team and reporting to the Publisher, the Design and Production Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping and enhancing Getty’s publications, which are known for their high editorial and production standards, inspired design, and lasting impact. Getty offers a collegial and collaborative environment where work-life balance is prioritized. Staff members can choose to participate in community service and serve on committees on diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion, mentorship and community building, and sustainability.

 

Please Note: Los Angeles area residency is required. This position is NOT fully remote and, after an initial period of being in the office full-time, operates on a hybrid in-office and work-from-home schedule.

Major Job Responsibilities

• Work with the Getty Publications staff and colleagues around Getty to develop print and digital book projects from concept to delivery, focusing on specifications, design strategy, manufacturing budgets, and production schedules.
• Manage design and production workflow, shaping procedures and standards to ensure that publications are produced on time, within budget, and meet quality-control standards.
• Oversee the planning and scheduling of individual projects, maintaining a master calendar for all Getty Publications in development.
• Develop and manage individual book budgets and the Design and Production Department budget. Review and oversee the processing of all paperwork and invoices related to design and production.
• Solicit manufacturing estimates, select vendors, and negotiate terms for a wide range of projects varying in scale, scope, and production requirements.
• Supervise an in-house design and production staff of seven. Oversee their work, guide them in resolving issues and troubleshooting problems, and monitor and evaluate their performance. 
• Work with in-house design and production staff to identify and contract with freelance vendors, including designers, production coordinators, typesetters, and illustrators.
• Coordinate with printers and shipping vendors to arrange for the safe, timely, and economical delivery of Getty Publications to the Getty’s Los Angeles warehouse and to the warehouses of our domestic and overseas distributors and publishing partners.
• Stay informed about vendors, technology, and standards for image capture, pre-press, digital and print production, and digital conversion.
• Manage all Getty image assets and archival files.
• Stay updated on industry standards and regulations regarding sustainability, accessibility, and safety, ensuring compliance in all production activities. Implement and monitor sustainable production processes to minimize environmental impact. Ensure all digital publications adhere to accessibility standards. Develop procedures for comprehensive record keeping to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Oversee an active reprint program (print, short run digital, and print-on-demand editions).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• 10 years experience in design or production management of illustrated books, preferably 5 or more years within the field of museum or art book publishing
• Management experience at a museum, university, or commercial press, with demonstrated leadership experience, project and budget management skills, and ability to create a positive and productive team environment

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The ideal candidate will have a passion for art and