Non-Fiction Editorial Director, Alfred A. Knopf

Job Description

Non-Fiction Editorial Director, Alfred A. Knopf (Open to Remote)

Alfred A. Knopf seeks a Non-Fiction Editorial Director. Reporting to the Publisher, the Editorial Director will solicit, acquire, develop, and edit works of non-fiction, and will have a voice in our non-fiction acquisitions and publishing across the list.

Alfred A. Knopf was founded in 1915 and has long been known as a publisher of distinguished hardcover fiction and non-fiction. Its list of notable authors includes Toni Morrison, John Updike, Cormac McCarthy, Alice Munro, Anne Rice, Anne Tyler, Jane Smiley, Richard Ford, Julia Child, Peter Carey, Kazuo Ishiguro, and Michael Ondaatje, as well as such classic writers as Thomas Mann, Willa Cather, John Hersey, and John Cheever.

Specific Responsibilities Include:
• Acquires and develops new book projects
• Assumes editorial responsibility for select authors already under contract
• In coordination with the publisher and editor in chief, assesses potential value of non-fiction submissions and advises on non-fiction publication strategies (e.g., titles/subtitles, jacket art, marketing and publicity campaigns)
• Manages nonfiction editorial staff
• Works with authors on concepts, outlines, and revisions of manuscripts, including structural and line edits
• Consults with the art, production, and managing editorial departments on schedule, design, and packaging of books
• Develops and maintains author, agent, and publisher contacts and engages in developmental work with authors
• Tracks manuscripts through all stages of editing, design, and production
• Prepares title information sheets; writes and edits copy
• Keeps abreast of trends and competitive titles
• Handles daily correspondence, office work, phones, attends required meetings
• Handles special projects as assigned and works collaboratively with the larger team
• Performs other related duties, administrative tasks, support functions as needed

Requirements:
• Minimum of 7-10 years book editorial experience and a solid track record of acquiring and shaping commercially successful books
• Strong understanding of competition and the non-fiction marketplace
• Strong line and conceptual editing skills
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Prior supervisory experience and proven ability to manage staff
• Established relationships with key agents
• Excellent organizational skills; ability to attend to detail
• Ability to work independently, under minimal supervision
• Strong negotiation skills
• Ability to work closely with authors

The salary range for this position is $120,000 - $220,000. Candidates with more than 10 years' experience acquiring and publishing prize-winning and commercially successful adult non-fiction titles will be eligible for a salary in the range of $150,000 - $220,000. All positions are currently eligible for annual profit award or bonus, subject to Company results.

Penguin Random House job postings include a good faith compensation range for each open position. The salary range listed is specific to each particular open position and takes into account various factors including the specifics of the individual role, and candidate's relevant experience and qualifications.

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-gqxyxm-216-73-216-21-42 in your application.