Senior Publicist, Simon & Schuster Books

Simone Development • New York, NY

1d

About The Position

Simon & Schuster is seeking a strategic, media-savvy, and highly collaborative Senior Publicist to join the flagship Simon & Schuster Books imprint. This role will lead and execute innovative publicity campaigns for a diverse list of high-profile and breakout titles across fiction and nonfiction, working closely with authors, agents, media, and internal stakeholders. The ideal candidate is an experienced book publicist with strong national media relationships, exceptional campaign instincts, and the ability to manage multiple major titles simultaneously in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment.

Requirements

• 5–8+ years of book publicity experience, preferably within a trade publishing environment.
• Demonstrated success securing high-level national media coverage.
• Established relationships with key media contacts across major outlets.
• Strong strategic thinking skills and ability to position books within broader cultural and news conversations.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple high-priority campaigns simultaneously.
• Experience working with high-profile authors and agents.
• Collaborative, proactive, and solutions-oriented mindset.
• Deep knowledge of the publishing landscape and media ecosystem.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with both fiction and nonfiction campaigns.
• Established relationships with podcast producers and digital-first outlets such as influencers/creators and book clubs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive, creative publicity campaigns for a wide range of frontlist titles, including lead and priority books.
• Secure national and regional media coverage across print, digital, broadcast, podcast, and emerging platforms.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with journalists, producers, editors, event programmers, and influencers.
• Draft compelling press materials including press releases, pitch letters, author Q&As, media alerts, and talking points.
• Strategically position authors for media appearances, speaking opportunities, and cultural moments.
• Manage author media training and prepare authors for interviews and public events.
• Coordinate national and virtual author tours, media appearances, festivals, and special events in collaboration with the marketing and events teams.
• Work closely with editorial, marketing, sales, and subsidiary rights teams to align campaign strategy with overall publishing goals.
• Oversee campaign budgets and manage outside vendors or freelance publicists when needed.
• Mentor and support junior publicity staff as appropriate.
• Track and report on campaign performance and media results.

What This Job Offers

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