Associate Editor, Fablelistik
About The Position
Fablelistik Editions is a specialized, direct-to-consumer brand within Macmillan dedicated to reimagining literary classics, genre favorites, and modern masterpieces as collectible, bespoke objects. Bridging the gap between commercial hardcovers and fine press books, our mission is to create the definitive edition of every title we touch. From commissioned artwork and custom typography to deluxe bindings and limited print runs, we serve a passionate community of collectors and bibliophiles. We are seeking a detail-oriented and creative Associate Editor to support the curation and production of our bespoke editions. Unlike a traditional editorial role focused on developmental text work, this is a cross-functional position, heavily weighted towards project management, title curation, and product design. You will act as the hub between Managing and Production Editorial, Production, Design, and Marketing, ensuring that every book meets our exacting standards of craftsmanship. You will manage the lifecycle of the editions as they are transformed into collectible artifacts, overseeing the workflow from concept through launch and publication.
Requirements
- 2+ years of editorial or production editorial experience in trade publishing.
- Experience with illustrated books, art books, or special editions is highly desired.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage complex schedules and multiple vendors (authors, artists, designers) simultaneously.
- Excellent written communication skills, capable of writing diplomatic emails to high-profile authors and estates as well as engaging copy for consumers.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat.
- Familiarity with InDesign and project management software (e.g. Airtable) is a plus.
- Experience with direct-to-consumer business model is a plus
Responsibilities
- Oversee the schedule for 10–15 titles annually, tracking milestones from initial concept to final file delivery.
- Research and commission new introductions, afterwords, or essays from notable authors and critics to add value to existing texts.
- Perform light copyediting and rigorous proofreading of ancillary materials and marketing copy. Ensure the "cleanliness" of the main text (often scanning and OCR-ing older texts) is perfect.
- Assist in clearing rights for texts, images, and archival materials.
- Work closely with the Art Director to research, scout, and commission illustrators for interior art, endpapers, and covers. Manage artist contracts and schedules.
- Collaborate with Production to track edition specific special features (e.g., ribbon markers, head/tail bands, slipcases, foil stamping, edge gilding, and paper quality).
- Review manuscript passes, color proofs, plotters, and physical dummies with an obsessive eye for detail, ensuring the physical object matches the creative vision.
- Write compelling product descriptions for the website, focusing on the material specifications (binding, paper weight, print technique) that appeal to the title and genre specific collectors.
- Assist the marketing team with newsletter content, behind-the-scenes blog posts, or social media assets that highlight the "making of" process.
- Assist the customer support team with specific inquiries regarding edition details, shipping updates, limitation numbers, or production delays.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
