Assistant Director / Associate Director Of Publicity, Penguin Young Readers

Job Description

Penguin Young Readers, a division of Penguin Random House, seeks an Assistant Director of Publicity/Associate Director of Publicity to join its Publicity team. This is a fantastic opportunity to work with distinguished authors, illustrators and brands, to help break out new talent, and to play a leadership role in our PR department. Penguin Young Readers is one of the leading children's book publishers in the United States and home to award-winning, critically-acclaimed and bestselling authors and illustrators such as Amanda Gorman, Max Brallier, Eric Carle, John Green, Oliver Jeffers, Malinda Lo, Brad Meltzer, Ransom Riggs, Ruta Sepetys, Sabaa Tahir and Jacqueline Woodson.

The ideal candidate will have experience planning and executing PR campaigns and tours for high-profile figures, have a proven track-record of booking national media, and will thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. The person in this role will be responsible for strategizing and executing lead campaigns for both established authors as well as emerging voices. We are looking for a creative and independent thinker who is passionate about books and spreading the joy of reading. Candidates should also have excellent writing and communication skills and an established network of broadcast, print and online media contacts, as well as the ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team environment.

The person in this position will interact internally with Penguin's Marketing, Sales and Editorial teams, and externally with authors, illustrators, booksellers and members of the press.

Specific responsibilities include:
• Strategizing, planning and executing publicity campaigns that will maximize exposure for authors and illustrators and their books.
• Securing national and regional TV, print, radio and online feature and review coverage for our authors and illustrators.
• Planning and booking extensive national multi-city book tours (in person and virtual), with bookstores, libraries, schools, and other large speaking venues.
• Working with high-profile talent on book launches, media and events.
• Coaching and prepping talent for public and school presentations and media interviews
• Accompanying authors to media interviews and events
• Managing 1 direct report.
• Developing and maintaining strong, trusting relationships with authors and the media.
• Drafting compelling press materials and targeted pitches to introduce PYR books to a large and diversified audience.
• Attending and presenting at weekly sales, marketing, and publicity meetings.

Please apply if you meet the following qualifications:
• At least 6 years of experience in public relations; book publishing experience is ideal but not required
• Experience managing a staff member
• Exceptional writing and pitching skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Existing relationships with national and regional media contacts.
• Experience presenting in front of large groups including internal meetings and with outside clients
• Proven ability to meet deadlines
• Strong organizational skills
• The ability to multi-task, prioritize and manage time effectively while also maintaining accuracy and attention to detail are essential.
• Ability to travel up to 5% of the year by plane/train and/or car required
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel
• Understanding of social media as a marketing tool

Please apply using our online application process, and please include your résumé and cover letter with salary requirements.

Full-time employees are eligible for our comprehensive benefits program. Our range of benefits include, but are not limited to, Medical/Prescription drug insurance, Dental, Vision, Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, Health Savings Account, Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k), Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Life/AD&D Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Student Loan Repayment Program, Educational Assistance & generous paid time off.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-re4v70-18-191-211-66-42 in your application.