Senior Acquisitions Editor

Berrett-Koehler Publishers•Oakland, CA

3h•Remote

About The Position

Berrett-Koehler Publishers is seeking a part-time Senior Acquisitions Editor to acquire, sign, and develop twelve to fifteen nonfiction book projects annually in the fields of general business and management, current affairs and societal change, personal growth, and other areas aligned with the company's mission. This role is primarily focused on acquisitions and editorial work, with minimal administrative tasks. The position is fully remote, requiring 24 hours per week, and the candidate must be based in the United States. Availability for meetings on Monday and Thursday mornings Pacific Time, as well as for book launches and related events, is necessary. A background check will be conducted after a formal offer is accepted.

Requirements

Minimum of five years’ experience as an acquisitions editor of nonfiction books
Knowledgeable about acquisitions in one or more of our core nonfiction areas: general business and management, current affairs and societal change, and personal growth
Active (and expanding) networks, groups, and circles from which you can identify and sign promising authors
Willing and able to pound the pavement (digitally and otherwise) to find authors
Willing to engage in substantive editorial work and project development of your books to actively shape the structure, messaging, and thrust of the works and ensure high quality and caliber of publications
Must be based in the United States (excluding U.S. territories)
Must be authorized to work in the United States
Available for meetings on Monday and Thursday mornings, Pacific Time
Available at mutually agreed-upon times for book launches and related meetings

Nice To Haves

Excited to work with an editorial team that supports your efforts and collaborates with you on projects as needed, and with whom you will also share your support, knowledge, and guidance
Want to work for a mission-driven company that takes a collaborative approach

Responsibilities

Conduct active outreach through multiple mediums (digitally and in person) to locate suitable authors
Acquire, develop, transmit, and publish new publications or new editions in BK’s target markets and negotiate and sign those publication agreements
Provide focused, in-depth editorial coaching, development, and guidance to authors from publication concept to final manuscript
Facilitate cost-effective design and production of publications by preparing authors for the design and production process, helping authors prepare manuscripts to meet design and production requirements, and ensuring the transmittal of final manuscripts
Assist authors in developing their own effective marketing plans for their publications by coaching them to connect with BK’s sales and marketing staff and efforts. Help authors gain realistic expectations for the extent and outcomes of those efforts
Interact with other departments and staff to keep them apprised and updated on upcoming projects and authors
Prepare book tip sheets and P & Ls for the publications board and present projects for approval to offer contracts
Actively collaborate in planning seasonal and annual publishing plans and related strategies