Senior Acquisitions Editor - HarperChristian Resources

Overview

Harper Christian Resources (HCR) is looking for a Senior Acquisitions Editor to join our dynamic team. HCR creates original proprietary Bible study content and Bible study resources based on book content published by Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, as well as other Christian trade book publishers. We publish video Bible studies, Bible study guides, small group study guides, ministry programs, and church campaigns in both print and digital formats.

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.

This role will oversee and manage new titles from Pub Board acceptance through editorial process management to printer-ready files. The Senior Acquisitions Editor will interface with the HCR editorial, marketing, and creative team members as well as shared service areas of the company to support best tools, processes, and practices.

Our preference is to fill this position in Nashville, TN or Grand Rapids, MI but we are also open to qualified candidates that are located outside of the area. Travel may be required based on the need of the business.

• 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. Also possess strong editorial and writing skills.
• 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; and develops, nurtures, and grows those author and agent relationships.
• Oversees editorial development of Bible studies and curriculum acquired, including the delivery of expert and timely editorial work and strong author management. Will be responsible for securing qualified freelance writers, video production teams, submitting approved content to copy editors/proofreaders, and selecting 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 propsals and/or contracted projects.
• Communicates with authors throughout the development process and serves as the lead/project manager until the project is deemed complete and accepted and is submitted to the printer.
• Responds to inquiries from sales, marketing, and other HCCP teams on matters related to the project.
• Represents HCR persuasively within HCCP and within the broader publishing community, including at author events, conferences, and industry events.
• Participants in brand meetings (where applicable) and other author-related meetings.
• Influences and informally mentors junior editorial staff.

Knowledge: Expert market knowledge, proven leadership ability, proven success in acquisitions, proven ability to maintain strong relationships with internal and external constituencies.

Work Experience: Proven success as an acquisitions editor with 7-8 years’ editorial experience or other relevant publishing experience.

Education: 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.
• A strong grasp of proper English, grammar, and an…