Publishing Manager (Books)

About this role

<p><span data-contrast="auto">We are seeking an experienced Publishing Manager to help build and lead the overall strategy and performance of our books publishing imprint, </span><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Absurd Ventures Press</span></strong><span data-contrast="auto">.  In conjunction with an external team of publishing domain experts, this role helps oversee the imprint with direct responsibility for revenue growth, profitability, and the long-term success of the publishing program. The Publishing Manager drives both creative and financial success ensuring that production, design, marketing, and managing editorial teams work effectively toward shared goals. The role requires a blend of strategic vision, commercial acumen, and creative leadership to shape the list’s direction. </span> <br><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Core Responsibilities:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Help develop imprint strategy, ensuring year-over-year growth in topline revenue and profitability.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Work with our publishing partners to oversee the critical path for the imprint program. This includes providing oversight to internal and external teams in Editorial, Managing Editorial, Production, and Art, ensuring alignment, efficiency, and financial discipline.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Collaborate with sales, marketing, publicity, subrights, and distribution to deliver profitable titles to market while maintaining strong margins.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">In conjunction with external publishing partners and the Absurd finance team, help manage financial goals of the program, including budgeting, P&L evaluation, and overall profitability.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Represent the publishing program internally and externally, cultivating strong relationships with authors, agents, and industry partners.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Manage all stages of each title’s print/digital lifecycle, including review of all passes; coordination with production, design, and freelancers; drafting of copy and metadata; and maintenance of reprints/backlist. </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Work with our external publishing partners to develop relationships with literary agents, authors, illustrators, and other partners.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Attend conferences and trade shows as needed and lead internal/external presentations. </span>  </li> </ul> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Core Qualifications:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">5 to 8 years of publishing experience, including progressive leadership responsibility within a publishing house</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Proven track record of driving revenue growth and profitability</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Deep understanding of the book publishing market and strong editorial judgment</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Highly connected network of contacts in publishing ecosystem (agents, retail, media, influencer networks, etc.) </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Experience working with stakeholders across internal teams and managing external partnerships </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Demonstrated success in acquisitions and author/agent relations</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Strong financial and strategic planning skills</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership…