Senior Acquisitions Editor - HarperChristian Resources

About the role

HarperChristian Resources (HCR) creates original proprietary Bible study content and resources based on book content published by Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, as well as other Christian trade book publishers. We publish 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 serves in a leadership role in the acquisition and editorial/product development for group and individual Bible studies, video curriculum, and small group resources in the Christian market. This role oversees and manages new titles from Pub Board acceptance through editorial process management to printer-ready files. The Senior Acquisitions Editor interfaces with the HCR editorial, marketing, and creative team members as well as shared service areas of the company to support best tools, processes, and practices.

Our preference is to fill this position in Nashville, TN or Grand Rapids, MI, but we are also open to qualified candidates located outside of these areas. Travel may be required based on business needs.

Responsibilities

• Actively acquire 12 to 14 titles per year, consistent with publishing strategy and financial goals.
• Develop Publishing Announcement forms, financial product details, and contract request forms.
• Demonstrate expertise in the landscape of the Christian church, Bible study resources, and an understanding of cultural, entertainment, and publishing trends.
• Exercise strong editorial judgment about which authors to acquire and re-sign; negotiate with authors and/or agents fairly and within financial benchmarks; develop, nurture, and grow author and agent relationships.
• Oversee editorial development of Bible studies and curriculum, including delivery of expert and timely editorial work and strong author management.
• Secure qualified freelance writers, video production teams, submit approved content to copyeditors/proofreaders, and select internal or external composition/interior designers.
• Shepherd the titling, packaging, and cataloging process for acquired titles.
• Provide timely communication with current and potential authors and their agents regarding the status of proposals and/or contracted projects.
• Communicate with authors throughout the development process and serve as the lead/project manager until the project is complete and submitted to the printer.
• Respond to inquiries from sales, marketing, and other HCCP teams on matters related to the project.
• Represent HCR persuasively within HCCP and the broader publishing community, including at author events, conferences, and industry events.
• Participate in brand meetings (where applicable) and other author-related meetings.
• Influence and informally mentor junior editorial staff.

Requirements

• Proven success as an acquisitions editor with 7-8 years’ editorial experience or other relevant publishing experience.
• BA in Humanities, English, Journalism, or Theology or equivalent degree required; MA degree preferred.
• Expert market knowledge, proven leadership ability, and success in acquisitions.
• Proven ability to maintain strong relationships with internal and external constituencies.
• Knowledge of the Bible Study market and Christian books, leading authors, and publishers.
• Expertise in Chicago Manual of Style and/or Christian Writers Manual of Style.
• Strong grasp of proper English, grammar, and attention to detail.
• Editing experience, including substantive editing, editorial project management, and input on aesthetics and design.
• Personal experience in leading or participating in a small group and/or Bible study, preferred.
• 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, particularly as they relate to authors to acquire.
• Understanding of the role of the church and ministry in publishing Bible study resources, preferred.

Skills

• 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.
• Able to work with and lead/influence others in a team environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to juggle multiple assignments simultaneously.
• Able to manage and coach creative people and desire to see them thrive.
• Skilled in understanding book offers, publishing terms, and negotiation tactics.
• Decisive, well-organized, strategic planner in a team environment with shared processes and goals.
• Innovation and creativity skills crucial for success.
• Relationship builder, networker, diplomatic, and collaborative.
• Outstanding communication and public speaking skills.
• Able to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving marketplace and environment.
• Able to travel as needed.