Editor in Chief, Basic Books Group

Hachette Book Group•New York, NY

About The Position

The Basic Books Group is a division of Hachette Book Group dedicated to making the world smarter by publishing works of serious non-fiction by expert authors. The group includes Basic Books, Seal Press, PublicAffairs, Bold Type Books, Basic Venture, and Basic Liberty. We are seeking an Editor in Chief to lead the Group’s editorial department and to oversee its overall editorial strategy. The Editor in Chief will guide editors through the acquisition process; recruit, supervise, and develop editorial staff; and acquire 8-10 new books per year. The successful candidate will have a proven record of editorial leadership, a strong background in working with top experts, a passion for bringing a diverse range of serious ideas to a wide audience of readers and consumers, and an eagerness to advocate for the Basic Books Group with agents and authors.

Requirements

10+ years’ editorial or equivalent experience, with a record of successfully and strategically publishing serious non-fiction titles.
Broad knowledge of, and genuine interest in, nonfiction subject areas and publishing categories.
Strong contacts among academics, journalists, writers, and literary agents.
Thirst for knowledge about consumers and the market for serious non-fiction.
Experience managing and mentoring staff effectively in a publishing setting.
Results-driven, goal-focused, and able to take ownership of and make timely decisions.
Ability to succeed in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment and to work cross-functionally with other groups, companies, and organizations on shared long-term projects.
High level of professionalism and excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
Impeccable organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent conceptual and line-editing abilities.
Demonstrated understanding of and an appreciation for the ideas of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Responsibilities

Develop and oversee the overall editorial strategy for the Basic Books Group across its six imprints.
Guide editors through the acquisitions process and advocate for project acquisition.
Recruit and develop Basic Books Group editorial staff and supervise an editorial department of 12-14 people, including 5-7 direct reports.
Commission and/or acquire 8-10 books annually, with a focus on lead titles; successfully negotiate deals; and manage all aspects of their publication.
Manage day-to-day editorial operations; ensure timely transmittal of manuscripts; edit fact sheets and descriptive copy; and coordinate preparation for presentations to the sales department.
Participate in inventory and first print decisions and budgeting meetings.
Collaborate with department heads in publicity, marketing, art, and production to ensure organized publication plans for books and on larger projects.
Identify candidates for paperback conversions and backlist reissues.
Represent Basic Books Group at academic conferences and industry events.