• Lead, integrate, and manage the editorial, design, and production teams with a focus on continuous improvement, innovation, operational excellence, and workflow efficiencies. • Optimize and streamline workflows, style guidelines, and quality standards across manuscript editing, typesetting, proofreading, cover/interior design, and file production. • Partner closely with acquisitions, marketing, digital publishing colleagues, and external partners to improve handoffs, and foster efficient, collaborative communication across all stages of the publishing lifecycle. • Design and maintain production schedules that support timely, cost-effective delivery of approximately 150 titles annually, while identifying opportunities to reduce cycle times and improve responsiveness. • Cultivate and manage relationships with a diverse network of freelancers, vendors, and production partners. • Lead contract negotiations and performance management to ensure value, quality, and service alignment. • Identify, evaluate, and implement emerging tools and technologies (e.g., XML-first workflows, automated proofing, accessibility-compliant outputs, DAM systems) to drive productivity and future-ready capabilities. • Participate in budgeting, financial tracking, and resource planning, with a keen eye toward efficiency and sustainability. • Represent the Press in internal and external settings—including university initiatives, industry forums, and association committees—advocating for best practices in editorial and production operations.