Publishing Project Specialist

Publishing Project Specialist

The Publishing Project Specialist oversees the end-to-end execution and scaling of publishing initiatives across print, digital, and multimedia formats. This role ensures manuscripts move efficiently from development through production, distribution, and post-launch optimization, while building the systems, workflows, and accountability needed to support a growing publishing division.

This position requires a highly experienced publishing operator with strong expertise in trade publishing, ministry/nonprofit publishing, and hybrid models, particularly in production workflows, vendor management, and cross-functional coordination. The ideal candidate can step in quickly to own complex publishing pipelines, including initiatives such as the Lumo Visual Scripture Series (VSS), Lumo Project Films integrations, and multi-language publishing efforts.

• Own and manage the full publishing lifecycle from concept through post-launch optimization, including manuscript development, editorial stages, design and typesetting, production, printing, distribution, and post‑launch performance
• Develop and maintain comprehensive production schedules, including milestones, dependencies, and delivery timelines
• Manage multiple concurrent publishing projects across varying stages of completion
• Coordinate cross‑functional teams including editorial, design, production, marketing, and distribution
• Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with strategic priorities
• Track progress against deliverables and proactively identify, elevate, and resolve risks, delays, or bottlenecks

• Oversee and manage production workflows across print (offset, short‑run, print‑on‑demand), eBooks (EPUB, Amazon KDP), and audio books (ACX, voice production, emerging voice technologies)
• Ensure readiness of all production files for prepress, print, and digital distribution
• Manage ISBN assignment, metadata creation, ONIX feeds, and title setup across retail and distribution platforms
• Coordinate title listings and product setup across channels including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, and other distribution partners
• Maintain consistency and quality control across all publishing outputs

• Manage relationships with printers, freelancers, agencies, and distribution partners
• Coordinate with vendors on technical specifications (trim size, paper, binding, finishes), quotes and cost comparisons, production timelines, and shipping logistics
• Negotiate deliverables, timelines, and service expectations with external partners
• Ensure quality assurance across all outsourced production work

• Track and manage project budgets, production costs, and financial allocations
• Analyze cost structures across printing, translation, localization, audio production, and design services
• Support financial planning, forecasting, and reporting for publishing initiatives
• Coordinate internal coding, invoicing, and financial workflows with Finance teams

• Align production timelines with go‑to‑market strategies and distribution schedules
• Coordinate launch readiness across internal teams and external platforms
• Ensure final assets are prepared for print distribution, digital retail platforms, and direct‑to‑consumer channels
• Support retail optimization strategies including metadata accuracy, discoverability, and platform‑specific requirements

• Collaborate with marketing teams on launch timelines, campaign asset development, and platform optimization
• Support promotional strategies including Shopify sales, affiliate distribution models, and digital promotions such as Kindle campaigns

• Build, implement, and refine standard operating procedures (SOPs) for publishing workflows
• Establish scalable systems to support increased publishing volume and complexity
• Implement and optimise tools such as Basecamp, Dropbox structures, Airtable, and Shopify integrations
• Improve workflow visibility, accountability, and efficiency across the publishing…