At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage production of Vintage Paperback titles and collaborate with creative teams.
- Company: Join the dynamic team at Random House Group in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a vibrant office culture.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative process and make an impact in publishing.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Production Controller and strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 38000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Production Controller to join our Vintage Production team on a fixed term contract basis from October 2026 to April 2027. This role will be based at our Embassy Gardens office in London, and is offered with hybrid working (2–3 days per week onsite).
As a Senior Production Controller, you will manage production of the Vintage Paperback list, working primarily on mono titles, and some full colour books. You will also produce some lead editions from the broader Vintage imprints. You will work within a highly collaborative team and give production advice and support to the division.
Key Responsibilities
- Cost and schedule titles to deliver on time, to budget and to high quality.
- Manage relationships and negotiate with key external suppliers – printers, repro houses, and typesetters – finding solutions to manufacturing, costing and scheduling challenges.
- Collaborate with internal teams across Editorial, Design, Sales, Inventory, Finance and Ebooks teams.
- Use your production expertise to solve problems and resolve issues where they arise.
- Maintain complete and accurate information in Biblio, our publishing system.
- Use your understanding of the needs and goals of the division to inform your decision making.
- Oversee archive and e‑book files, keeping our digital editions on track.
What you’ll bring
Essential criteria
- Previous experience in a Production Controller role.
- Proven experience of mono printing as well as a range of pre‑press and digital workflows.
- Ability to organise information effectively, keeping track of all information relating to your printings, suppliers, and processes.
- Comfortable with prioritising and managing a busy workload, with a calm, positive and flexible approach.
- Team player but equally happy to work independently on your own initiative.
Desirable criteria
- Experience and/or knowledge of colour printing.
- Experience of using Biblio.
Salary
The salary band for this opportunity is £34,000‑£38,000 depending on how your skills and experience align to the role, plus benefits.
Hybrid Working
For this role we expect that you will work from the Embassy Gardens office in London a minimum of 2–3 days per week, and be available to attend on other days as required by the business.
Senior Production Controller (FTC) employer: Bertelsmann
At Random House Group, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and creativity. Our Embassy Gardens office in London provides a dynamic environment with hybrid working options, allowing for a healthy work-life balance. We are committed to employee growth, providing opportunities for professional development and the chance to work with a talented team dedicated to producing high-quality publications.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Production Controller (FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the publishing industry, especially those who work in production. Attend events or join online groups where you can connect with others and learn about potential job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with someone from the company, be ready to discuss your previous experiences in production control. Highlight your expertise in mono printing and how you've tackled challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a job that fits your skills, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email to express your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its products. Understand their Vintage Paperback list and think about how your experience can contribute to their goals. This will show you're genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Production Controller (FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Senior Production Controller role. Highlight your previous production controller experience and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially in mono printing and digital workflows.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our Vintage Production team. Mention specific examples of how you've managed relationships with suppliers or solved production challenges in the past.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:We love a good team player! In your application, share instances where you've collaborated with different teams, like Editorial or Design. This will show us that you can thrive in our highly collaborative environment.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about us and what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bertelsmann
✨Know Your Production Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of mono printing and pre-press workflows. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your previous roles where you successfully managed production schedules and budgets.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
This role is all about collaboration, so be prepared to talk about how you've worked with different teams in the past. Share stories that highlight your ability to negotiate with suppliers and resolve issues while keeping everyone on the same page.
✨Get Familiar with Biblio
If you have experience using Biblio, make sure to mention it! If not, do a bit of research beforehand. Understanding how to maintain accurate information in publishing systems will show you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The interviewers will likely want to see how you handle a busy workload. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to prioritise tasks and maintain a positive attitude, even when things get hectic. A calm demeanour can really set you apart!
