Job Description
Job Purpose:
The Director of Publicity, Children’s Division, is a leadership role responsible for developing, communicating and executing publicity strategies to promote children's books and authors ranging from novelty/board books through young adult titles. This decision-making role involves overseeing publicity campaigns, managing a team, building relationships with media, and enhancing the visibility and success of children's titles in the market.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop comprehensive publicity strategies for children's books, aligning them with the overall marketing and sales goals.
- Create detailed campaign plans for book launches, author events, and other promotional activities.
- Lead and manage the publicity team, providing mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities.
- Plan and execute publicity strategy for high level publicity campaigns, including media and tours/events, for division’s leading authors, franchises, and brand/license partners.
- Collaborate closely with other departments, including marketing, editorial, sales, and design, to ensure cohesive and integrated campaigns.
- Cultivate strong relationships with authors/illustrators and agents, to establish trust and beneficial collaboration.
- Pitch seasonal lists and title-specific features, interviews, and reviews to major national media contacts to secure coverage for books and authors. Maintain a robust network of media contacts in print, broadcast, online, and social media platforms relevant to children's publishing.
- Represent and coordinate the Children’s Publicity voice and vision in weekly acquisition meetings
- Coordinate book launches, author tours (including the annual Wimpy Kid tour), and events to generate excitement and engage readers.
- Manage potential crisis situations related to authors, books, or public perception, responding with transparency and professionalism.
- Work with Executive Director to develop and manage the publicity budget, allocating resources effectively to support various campaigns and activities.
- Monitor expenses and ensure cost-effective strategies.
- Monitor the effectiveness of publicity campaigns, track media coverage, and measure the impact on book sales and brand visibility.
- Use data to refine strategies and enhance future campaigns.
- Foster a collaborative and creative work environment across departments that encourages innovation.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
- 10+ years experience in book publicity, with a focus on children's titles.
- Proven leadership skills and experience managing publicity teams.
- Strong media contacts and relationships within the children's publishing industry.
- Proficiency in social media platforms and online engagement strategies.
- Strategic mindset with a data-driven approach to campaign planning and analysis.
- Crisis management skills and the ability to navigate sensitive situations.
- Deep understanding of industry trends and best practices in children's publishing and publicity.
Knowledge/Skills:
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage complex tasks and priorities.
- Strong multitasking abilities and adaptability to changing priorities.
- Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.
- Creative thinker with the ability to generate unique and impactful publicity ideas Proactive and resourceful problem-solving skills.
- Easily builds and maintains relationships with different management levels and personalities; Proven ability to work cross-functionally across departments
- Open-minded, innovative, proactive self-starter who can work well independently yet flourishes in a collaborative environment
What we offer:
- Competitive salary
- Hybrid work schedule
- Paid Holidays
- Summer Fridays
- Company-paid time off during Christmas week
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Flexible Spending Account
- Life Insurance
- Health Benefits
- Retirement savings plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
This position is based in our New York City office with a hybrid work schedule (in-office 3 days per week).
Application Instructions:Please submit your resume and cover letter for consideration.
Salary range: $100,000 – $120,000
Job Tags
Holiday work, Full time, Temporary work, Summer work, Christmas work, Seasonal work, Flexible hours, 3 days per week,