Editor, Storey Publishing
Summary:
Storey Publishing, a leading publisher of do-it-yourself technique books, seeks an experienced editor with a passion for the DIY lifestyle and Storey’s key categories—including homesteading, gardening, backyard building, crafts, and kids’ books—to acquire and edit 6–8 books annually. The successful candidate will have a strong ability to identify and network with a diverse range of people with strong platforms and unique approaches.
The position requires: an ability to originate book ideas with strong sales potential in Storey’s key categories, develop strategic positioning statements and well-honed proposals; work collaboratively with authors, editors, and art directors; provide in-depth editing and writing support to first-time authors; and conceive new formats and creative approaches to topics.
Ideally the candidate will be available to work in the North Adams, MA office two days per week, but we may consider remote arrangements.
Ideally the candidate will be available to work in the North Adams, MA office two days per week, but we may consider remote arrangements.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conceive and develop original book ideas; reach out to a diverse range of potential authors; provide proposal development support to un-agented authors.
- Develop and maintain productive relationships with agents; attend conferences and networking events in key topic areas; and present proposals regularly at publishing committee meetings to ensure a flow of proposals for consideration with the goal of successful acquiring 6-8 new titles annually.
- Participate in regular acquisitions pitch meetings with Editorial Director and other acquisitions editors; provide feedback and guidance on pitched proposals in all Storey’s publishing categories.
- Write strong positioning statements, marketing copy, and sales conference presentations for acquired books.
- Perform strong developmental editing for acquired books, working closely with authors and Storey’s Editorial Director to ensure the book delivers in-depth content in both text and visuals.
- Act as project manager for all acquired books, managing the schedule (in conjunction with Managing Editor), monitoring the book budget, hiring freelance copyeditors and proofreaders; reviewing all stages of page proofs; and working collaboratively with key team members in design, production, and sales to shepherd the book through the 14–18 month book production process, from receipt of manuscript to delivery to printer.
- Plan illustration and photography needs for each book, working collaboratively with the art director and author; attend photo shoots and ensure the accuracy of all step-by-step photos and illustrations.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
- BS or B.A. in English, journalism, writing, or similar field.
- 5+ years of editorial or equivalent experience.
- Enthusiasm, knowledge, and skills in gardening, crafting, and other DIY topics and lifestyle highly desirable.
- Commitment to elevating a diverse range of voices and cultivating an equitable, inclusive craft community.
- Superior writing and editing skills and knowledge of Chicago Manual of Style guidelines.
- Keen design eye and skill in working collaboratively with art directors to conceive book formats and critique book design, photography, and illustrations.
- Flexible team player with strong commitment to working in a highly collaborative environment.
- Knowledge of MS Word necessary.
How to Apply: To be considered, please submit both a resume AND a cover letter. We ask for a cover letter so that we can understand how your skills or experience can apply to our open role.
As a leading book publisher, we believe that including and representing diverse voices in all aspects of our business is fundamental to what we do. Our publishing programs must reflect the broad range of backgrounds, experiences, political views, and ideas that shape our society and publish books for all readers.
Hachette Book Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
The compensation for this position is $55,000 -$59,000. Salary can vary based on several factors including skills, experience, and location — talk with your recruiter to learn more. There may be times you will be required (or requested) to work overtime due to your role or exceptional workload issues or special projects.
The following benefits are offered by the company: medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life, short-term and long-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment, critical illness, hospital indemnity, long-term care, health and dependent care FSA, commuter benefit plan, employee assistance program, tuition reimbursement, travel assistance, 401(k), discretionary bonus program, PTO (15 vacation days, 3 personal days, 10 holidays and generous sick leave) and group discounts on auto and home insurance and legal services. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification, hours worked and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms.