[Hiring] Senior Acquisitions Editor @HarperCollins Publishers

Role Description

HarperChristian Resources (HCR) is looking for a Senior Acquisitions Editor to join our dynamic team. The Senior Acquisitions Editor serves in a leadership role in the acquisition and editorial/product development for group and individual Bible studies, video curriculum, and small group resources in the Christian market.

• Actively acquires 12 to 14 titles per year, consistent with publishing strategy and financial goals.
• Develops Publishing Announcement forms, financial product details, and contract request forms.
• Possesses expertise in the landscape of the Christian church, Bible study resources, as well as an understanding of cultural, entertainment, and publishing trends.
• Demonstrates strong editorial judgment about which authors to acquire and re-sign.
• Negotiates with authors and/or agents in a manner that is fair and within financial benchmarks.
• Develops, nurtures, and grows author and agent relationships.
• Oversees editorial development of Bible studies and curriculum acquired.
• Secures qualified freelance writers, video production teams, and submits approved content to copyeditors/proofreaders.
• Selects internal or external composition/interior designers.
• Shepherds the titling, packaging, and cataloging process for acquired titles.
• Provides timely communication with current and potential authors and their agents regarding the status of their proposals and/or contracted projects.
• Communicates with authors throughout the development process and serves as the lead/project manager until the project is deemed complete.
• Responds to inquiries from sales, marketing, and other HCCP teams on matters related to the project.
• Represents HCR persuasively within HCCP and the broader publishing community.
• Participates in brand meetings (where applicable) and other author-related meetings.
• Influences and informally mentors junior editorial staff.

Qualifications

• Expert market knowledge and proven leadership ability.
• Proven success in acquisitions and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external constituencies.
• 7-8 years’ editorial experience or other relevant publishing experience.
• BA in Humanities, English, Journalism, or Theology or equivalent degree required; MA degree preferred.
• Knowledge of the Bible Study market and Christian books, leading authors, and publishers.
• Expertise in Chicago Manual of Style and/or Christian Writers Manual of Style.
• Strong grasp of proper English, grammar, and an eagle-eye for errors.
• Editing experience, including substantive editing and editorial project management.
• Personal experience in leading or participating in a small group and/or Bible study preferred.
• Good understanding of the Bible and Christian doctrine.
• Well versed and engaged in social media, including emerging trends and voices.
• Understanding the role of the church and ministry for publishing Bible study resources preferred.

Requirements

• Excellent developmental editing, line editing, proofreading, and communication skills.
• Manuscript management experience.
• Familiarity with Christian Bible study content and a variety of theological frameworks.
• Able to work with and lead/influence others in a team environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to juggle multiple assignments at any given time.
• Able to manage and coach creative people and desire to see them thrive.
• Skilled in understanding book offers, publishing terms, and negotiation tactics.
• Decisive, well organized, and a strategic planner in a team environment.
• Innovation and creativity skills are crucial for success.
• Relationship builder, networker, diplomatic, and collaborative.
• Outstanding communication and public speaking skills.
• Able to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving marketplace and environment.
• Able to travel as needed.

Benefits

• Equal opportunity employer.
• Commitment to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities.