Senior Acquisitions Editor - HarperChristian Resources

HarperCollins Publishers • Nashville, TN

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

HarperChristian Resources (HCR) is seeking a Senior Acquisitions Editor to join their team. HCR specializes in creating original Bible study content and resources based on books from Thomas Nelson, Zondervan, and other Christian publishers. They publish a variety of materials including video Bible studies, Bible study guides, small group study guides, ministry programs, and church campaigns in both print and digital formats. The Senior Acquisitions Editor will play a leadership role in acquiring and developing products for the Christian market, overseeing new titles from initial acceptance through the editorial process to final print-ready files. This role involves collaboration with HCR's editorial, marketing, and creative teams, as well as shared service departments, to ensure the best tools, processes, and practices are utilized. The position is preferred to be based in Nashville, TN or Grand Rapids, MI, but remote candidates may be considered. Travel may be required.

Requirements

• Expert market knowledge.
• Proven leadership ability.
• Proven success in acquisitions.
• Proven ability to maintain strong relationships with internal and external constituencies.
• 7-8 years of editorial experience or other relevant publishing experience.
• BA in Humanities, English, Journalism, or Theology or equivalent degree required.
• Expertise in Chicago Manual of Style and/or Christian Writers Manual of Style.
• Strong grasp of proper English, grammar, and attention to detail for errors.
• Editing experience, including substantive editing, editorial project management, and providing input on aesthetics and design.
• Good understanding of the Bible and Christian doctrine.
• Well-versed and engaged in social media, including emerging trends and voices on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and Meta, as they relate to authors to acquire.
• Excellent developmental editing, line editing, proofreading, and communication skills.
• Ability to work with authors in developing content.
• Manuscript management experience.
• Familiarity with Christian Bible study content and a variety of theological frameworks.
• Ability to work with and lead/influence others in a team environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to juggle multiple assignments simultaneously.
• Ability to manage and coach creative people and a desire to see them thrive.
• Skilled in understanding book offers, publishing terms, and negotiation tactics.
• Decisive, well-organized, strategic planner in the context of a team environment with shared processes and goals.
• Innovation and creativity skills are crucial for success.
• Relationship builder, networker, diplomatic and collaborative.
• Outstanding communication and public speaking skills.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving marketplace and environment.
• Able to travel as needed.

Nice To Haves

• MA degree preferred.
• Personal experience in leading or participating in a small group and/or Bible study, preferred.
• Understanding the role of the church and ministry for publishing Bible study resources, preferred.

Responsibilities

• Acquire 12 to 14 titles per year, aligning with publishing strategy and financial goals.
• Develop Publishing Announcement forms, financial product details, and contract request forms.
• Oversee editorial development of acquired Bible studies and curriculum, ensuring timely and expert editorial work and strong author management.
• Secure qualified freelance writers and video production teams.
• Submit approved content to copyeditors/proofreaders.
• Select internal or external composition/interior designers.
• Shepherd the titling, packaging, and cataloging process for acquired titles.
• Provide timely communication to authors and agents regarding proposal and contracted project status.
• Communicate with authors throughout the development process, serving as the lead/project manager until project completion and submission to the printer.
• Respond to inquiries from sales, marketing, and other HCCP teams regarding projects.
• Represent HCR persuasively within HCCP and the broader publishing community, including at author events, conferences, and industry events.
• Participate in brand meetings and other author-related meetings.
• Influence and informally mentor junior editorial staff.

Benefits

• HarperCollins Christian Publishing is an equal opportunity employer.
• HarperCollins Christian Publishing is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, in our job application and/or interview process.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior