What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sales & Marketing Director - University Press Manager position at The Pennsylvania State University?
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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
Penn State University Press seeks an innovative and results-driven Sales & Marketing Director to lead its marketing and sales strategies and amplify the reach, reputation, and revenue of its diverse publishing program. This position is based in vibrant and beautiful University Park, Pennsylvania, and it offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of a globally respected university press.
About Penn State University Press
PSU 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, PSU 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.
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.
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. For both our books and journals programs, they will bring:
Proven Expertise: At least five years of experience in sales and marketing within the publishing industry, with a strong grasp of both traditional and digital marketing strategies.
Leadership Skills: Demonstrated success in leading diverse teams, mentoring talent, 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.
This position will be filled as a University Press Manager at the level of Manager or Senior Manager, depending on the final applicant's experience and education.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's Degree in marketing, communications, publishing, or a related field; 8 years of relevant experience; includes 3 years of supervisory experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience)
Strong project management skills with the ability to oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously.
Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, with a track record of successful partnerships and collaborations.
Preferred Qualifications
Master's Degree in the arts, humanities, or related field; 10 years of relevant experience, including 3 years of supervisory experience
Experience in university press publishing
Knowledge of trends in academic and trade publishing, including open access and print-on-demand technologies.
Why Join Us?
This role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on a prestigious institution's publishing legacy. At PSU Press, you'll work with passionate professionals in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, shaping the future of publishing while advancing your own career.
Additional Details
Travel is required, including potential international travel.
This position is based onsite, with some flexibility for hybrid work arrangements. The position is not eligible for full-time remote work.
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.
Application review will take place by April 1, 2025.
Join Our Team
Join us in the vigorous pursuit of excellence in publishing. Apply now to become a part of our innovative team!
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:
$68,200.00 - $115,100.00Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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Salary : $68,200 - $115,100
