Hong Kong, China
Production manager
at A Work Of Substance
A Work Of Substance is hiring a production manager to join its team in Hong Kong.
About Substance
We are a collective of passionate explorers from 17 countries. We exercise the art of forgetting what we know and look to maps of the past, as we scavenge for vibrant stories about the people and cultures that our designs inhabit.
Our team of strategists, editors, graphic designers, architects, landscape designers, interior designers and product designers allow us to shape every single touch point.
Our designs are an opportunity to entertain a conversation with your guests, an invitation to interact and to contemplate, entertaining rituals and creating habits. It is an opportunity to tell your story and to tell a story that no one else is telling.
Curious? Visit us at www.aworkofsubstance.com
Job description
Join our dynamic interior design studio in Hong Kong and become an integral part of our growing team. As our production manager, you will play a pivotal role in sourcing, producing and documenting the furniture, fixtures, equipment (FF&E), finishes and decor for our diverse range of design projects.
Working closely with our operations and creative directors and our team of designers, you will ensure the seamless procurement and production of all project-related items for hospitality, F&B, residential and retail projects among others.
We’re seeking a high-calibre individual who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. As a proven team player with the ability to work independently, you should have a deep appreciation for aesthetics and a passion for tackling the most challenging, rewarding design projects around the world.
Responsibilities
Project management:
- oversee the end-to-end production and procurement processes for all interior design projects, including assisting the creative team with reviewing of shop drawings from suppliers and contractors, assisting the project team with selection, coordination, and documentation of interior architectural finishes, loose decorations, ironmongeries etc. and assisting the creative team in developing new bespoke products and ensuring items are within budget and delivered within the given project timeline
- develop and maintain project timelines, ensuring deadlines are met and deliverables are provided on schedule
- coordinate the work of various teams, including designers, procurement specialists and third-party vendors
- identify and mitigate potential project risks, implementing contingency plans as needed
- regular update to the management through weekly production meeting
Procurement coordination:
- manage the procurement of both sourced (off-the-shelf) and bespoke (custom-made) furniture, fixtures, and equipment, provide samples for clients are necessary
- liaise with local or global suppliers, vendors, and manufacturers to obtain accurate lead times, pricing, prototyping and samples
- negotiate favourable terms and pricing with suppliers to maximize value for the agency and its clients
- ensure timely delivery and quality control of all procured items
Inventory management:
- maintain a comprehensive inventory system to track the status of all ordered and received items
- develop and implement policies and procedures for inventory management, including item tracking, damage assessment and returns
Quality assurance:
- establish and oversee quality control processes for both sourced and bespoke items
- inspect and approve all received items to ensure they meet the specified design requirements and quality standards
- coordinate with designers and clients to address any issues or discrepancies with the delivered items
Vendor and supplier management:
- source and maintain strong relationships with a network of reliable suppliers, manufacturers and service providers
- evaluate and onboard new vendors based on factors such as quality, lead times, pricing and customer service
- provide feedback and collaborate with vendors to improve their performance and address any recurring issues
- identify potential business collaboration
Process improvement:
- provide recommendations to the agency’s leadership on procurement and production process improvements and strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce costs
- implement best practices and leverage technology to streamline operations and improve data tracking where relevant
Reporting and communication:
- prepare regular progress reports, budgets and performance metrics for project stakeholders and management
- collaborate with the design and client service teams to ensure seamless communication and alignment throughout the project lifecycle
- serve as the primary point of contact for clients and vendors regarding procurement-related matters
Requirements
Education and experience:
- bachelor’s degree in interior design, architecture, supply chain management, or a related field
- minimum five to seven years’ proven experience as a production manager or in a similar role within the interior design, architecture or procurement industry, preferably in the hospitality, F&B, retail and/or residential sector
- demonstrated track record of successfully managing the production and procurement processes for a diverse range of interior design projects
Technical skills:
- proficient in using project management software
- skilled in reading and interpreting technical specifications, drawings and design documents
- familiarity with manufacturing processes, materials and furniture/finish standards
- excellent knowledge of global sourcing, logistics and supply chain management
Critical thinking and problem-solving:
- ability to identify and mitigate project risks, implementing creative solutions as needed
- strong analytical and decision-making skills to optimize procurement processes and costs
- adept at navigating complex supplier and vendor relationships
Communication and collaboration:
- exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to liaise effectively with clients, designers and cross-functional teams
- proficient in written and verbal communication in English (additional languages, such as Cantonese or Mandarin, would be an asset)
- demonstrated experience in leading and coordinating interdisciplinary teams
Other requirements:
- willingness to travel internationally to visit suppliers, manufacturers, and project sites as needed
- passion for interior design and a keen eye for aesthetics
- adaptable and flexible in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment
- exceptional organizational and time management skills
Candidates with less working experience may be considered as assistant or junior production manager. Please submit your resume (in English) and portfolio with your expected salary via the apply for job button below.