Senior Editor (Art Publishing / Museum & Humanities)

About the role

The Senior Editor will manage all aspects of book publishing projects, from proposal pitches to final publication. Responsibilities include identifying new publishing opportunities, negotiating contracts, managing timelines, and overseeing the entire editorial process.

Responsibilities

• Identify, generate, and recommend new book publishing opportunities aligned with organizational priorities
• Work with potential authors to develop viable project proposals and sample materials
• Negotiate contracts with authors, agents, packagers, and freelance consultants
• Provide editorial project management for print and digital publications across various audiences and complexity levels
• Collaborate with design, production, and rights teams to establish schedules and track progress
• Ensure the quality of work from peer reviewers, translators, project editors, copyeditors, proofreaders, and indexers
• Supervise the peer review process, including soliciting and contracting reviewers, evaluating reviews, and addressing author concerns
• Work with rights coordinators to ensure illustrations are acquired and transmitted on schedule
• Aid in the training and development of junior staff and the freelance pool

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in the humanities (preferably English or art history); master's preferred
• At least 7 years of relevant publishing experience, preferably including 4 years in art publishing or a museum environment
• Proven copyediting and proofreading skills with excellent knowledge of Chicago Manual of Style
• Substantial knowledge of art history and visual culture
• Demonstrated excellence in project management
• Proficiency in Microsoft products and collaboration tools
• Reading knowledge or familiarity with one or more European languages preferred
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Proven ability to work independently and adapt to shifting priorities