Acquisitions Editor II - Trade & Professional Division

Human Kinetics•Champaign, IL

17d•$63,000 - $85,200•Hybrid

About The Position

Human Kinetics is seeking a proven Acquisitions Editor to shape and expand our imprint, Lotus Books. In this highly impactful role, you will work closely with the Division Director to oversee a growing line up of resources in the areas of health, fitness, wellness, anatomy, and physical and manual therapy. The Acquisitions Editor will be directly responsible for conceptualizing, acquiring, contracting, and guiding the development of 16-20 new titles annually. You will also review the backlist to identify opportunities for repurposing content. Demonstrated acquisitions success and a strong ability to visualize, assess, organize, and present information effectively for our target audience are a must.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree in a publishing-related discipline or one or more of Lotus Books’ subject areas, such as fitness, health, anatomy, physical (or complementary) therapy.
3+ years of relevant experience in publishing AND 3+ years of demonstrated success as an acquisitions editor, or equivalent position, for a trade or professional publisher.
Excellent analytical, writing, editing, communication, and project management skills.
Strong diplomacy skills, with experience negotiating, drafting, and reviewing contracts highly preferred.
Attention to detail and excellent follow through on tasks.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
Must hold a valid US driver's license.

Nice To Haves

Graduate degree in a publishing-related discipline or one or more of Lotus Books’ subject areas, such as fitness, health, anatomy, physical (or complementary) therapy.
4+ years of demonstrated success as acquisitions editor, or equivalent position, in professional or trade book publishing.

Responsibilities

Conceptualize, acquire, contract, and develop 16-20 new Lotus Books titles each year.
Establish and maintain a vast and respected network of subject matter experts within primary subject areas.
Identify, screen, and recruit authors for envisioned projects.
Assess and define the needs of proposed projects, including photos, illustrations, design, and other elements.
Complete and present internal analysis of strengths, weaknesses, target market(s), and profitability for proposed acquisitions.
Provide support and feedback to authors, including reviewing, recommending, and as needed, implementing revisions to the manuscript.
Prepare manuscripts and hand off to the Publications Service Manager (PSM), serving as the primary contact for authors, internal staff, and, as needed, freelancers throughout the publication stages.
Evaluate the performance of backlist titles and implement strategies to enhance their visibility and sales.
Contribute to the packaging of products, including consultation with the Division Director on title, cover and interior design, and marketing copy and materials.
Collaborate with existing publishing partners to coordinate reprints, corrections, updates, and new editions of active titles.
Serve as liaison to all internal business units including Product Development, Sales and Marketing, Fulfillment, and International Development on all matters related to Lotus Books
Develop familiarity with Lotus Books, including photo, art, and video assets. Activity and strategically seek out opportunities to repurpose content.