Reference #: REQ_0000070132
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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State University Press seeks an innovative and results-driven Sales & Marketing Director (University Press Manager) to lead its marketing and sales strategies and amplify the reach, reputation, and revenue of its publishing program. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of a globally respected university press.
Position Overview
As a key member of the management team, the Sales & Marketing Director will oversee all aspects of sales, marketing, and publicity, from strategic planning to execution, both for books and for journals.
Reporting to the Executive Director, this individual will lead a dynamic team of four full-time staff, plus interns, while collaborating across departments to align marketing efforts with the Press's mission and vision.
Key Responsibilities and Areas of Oversight for Books and Journals
Team Leadership: Inspire, mentor, and manage the Sales & Marketing team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
Strategic Planning: Develop and execute innovative, data-driven sales and marketing plans that leverage print, digital, and social media platforms.
Sales Management: Oversee domestic and international sales, manage key accounts, drive growth through targeted sales strategies, and seek new business opportunities.
Budget Oversight: Prepare and manage departmental budgets, sales forecasts, and comprehensive reports, ensuring financial goals are met.
Partnerships & Vendor Relations: Strengthen relationships with vendors, sales agents, and distributors, negotiating contracts and expanding distribution channels.
Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Partner with acquisitions, journals, EDP (Editorial, Design, and Publication), warehouse, and IT teams to evaluate and promote new projects, ensuring marketability and alignment with strategic goals.
Marketing Innovation: Lead creative campaigns, book launches, and promotional strategies to maximize visibility and sales across all platforms.
Inventory & Distribution: Monitor inventory levels, coordinate reprints, and explore print-on-demand opportunities to maintain operational efficiency.
The Sales and Marketing Director will be expected to travel occasionally, including potential infrequent international travel.
Who We Seek
We seek a visionary leader and communicator with a passion for both scholarly and trade publishing. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, combining strategic thinking with hands-on execution.
Qualifications:
Proven Expertise: Excellent grasp of both traditional and digital marketing strategies; a minimum of 3 (three) years of publishing industry experience is required.
Leadership Skills: Demonstrated success in leading teams, mentoring talent, maintaining an inclusive and respectful environment for all team members, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Analytical Acumen: Proficiency in sales forecasting, budget management, and data analysis to inform decision-making and drive growth.
Creative Vision: A talent for developing compelling campaigns and strategies that resonate with varied audiences, including authors, academics, and general readers.
Exceptional Communication: Outstanding verbal and written skills, with the ability to craft persuasive messaging and build strong relationships.
Technological Savvy: Familiarity with marketing tools, metadata systems, and social media platforms, alongside an understanding of print and web design principles.
Project Management Skills: Ability to oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously
Preferred Qualifications:
Master's Degree in the arts, humanities, or related field
Experience in university press publishing
Knowledge of trends in academic and trade publishing, including open access and print-on-demand technologies.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSIf filled as University Press Manager - Senior Manager, this position requires:
Master's Degree
10+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
If filled as University Press Manager - Manager, this position requires:
Bachelor's Degree
8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None
Application Instructions: Applicants are required to submit a resume and cover letter.
Additional Details:
The University Libraries is supportive of flexible work arrangements, such as remote or hybrid work opportunities, when aligned with the ability to meet the needs of the unit and the essential duties of the position. Questions related to flexible work and/or remote arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
Why Join Us?
This role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on a prestigious institution's publishing legacy. At Penn State University Press, you'll work with passionate professionals in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, shaping the future of publishing while advancing your own career.
About Penn State University Press
Penn State University Press is renowned for publishing groundbreaking scholarly books across its three imprints:
Penn State University Press, scholarship in the arts and humanities and regional trade titles
Eisenbrauns, specialist publications in biblical studies, ancient Near Eastern studies, archaeology, ancient languages, and Islamic studies.
Graphic Mundi, trade graphic novels for general readers on important topics
Additionally, Penn State University Press is home to a robust journals publishing program comprised of more than 80 titles and more than 175 issues annually.
The Press combines tradition and innovation, producing scholarly and trade books along with academic journals that inspire, educate, and engage global audiences.
Join Our Team
Join us in the vigorous pursuit of excellence in publishing. Apply now to become a part of our innovative team!
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCESEmployment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be autho
