Backlist Manager, Simon & Schuster Books

We are seeking an experienced, creative and detail-oriented Backlist Manager to join our team. This role oversees the strategic development of our diverse library of backlist titles (fiction and nonfiction), ensuring they continue to reach and resonate with audiences long after their initial publication. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the publishing industry, an editorial sensibility, a familiarity with sales channels, and a knack for identifying opportunities to reintroduce older books to contemporary readers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prioritize Backlist Staples: Maintain the steady publication of core backlist titles.
• Monitor Backlist Opportunities: Keep close track of upcoming anniversaries, milestones, film/TV tie-ins and events that would benefit a backlist repackage/reissue.
• Commission New Introductions up with unique ideas for writers of new introductions that will help give older books contemporary relevance. Work with the author/estate of the book for approval of the potential introduction writers. Engage with literary agents and entertainment agents to secure introduction writers, and make sure these writers are approved by the author/estate of the backlist title in question. Negotiate fees with agents. Edit introductions and guide them through the production process.
• Oversee Repackaging: Submit jacket memos to art department for updated cover designs. Obtain approval from author/estate for updated cover designs. Update book description for both the cover and online retail pages.
• Marketing and Promotion: Work closely with the marketing and publicity teams to create and execute promotional campaigns for backlist titles. Utilize social media, email marketing, and other channels to reach target audiences effectively.
• Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with sales and production teams to ensure optimal stock levels for backlist titles.
• Author Relations: Maintain positive relationships with authors/estates and agents, addressing their needs and inquiries regarding backlist titles.
• Reporting: Provide regular reports on the performance of backlist titles, including sales figures, market trends, and promotional outcomes.
• Occasional Acquisitions: Find intriguing and/or newly relevant titles that have fallen out of print and negotiate/acquire their rights for reissue.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in editorial or sales roles; book publishing experience with a focus on backlist management is preferred but not mandatory.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in English, Literature, Publishing, Library Science, History, Business or a related field.
• Skills:
• Strong editorial skills with a keen eye for detail.
• The ability to meet deadlines.
• Proven ability to develop and implement successful marketing and promotional strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret sales data and market trends.
• Attributes:
• Self-starter with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Passion for books and a deep understanding of literary trends.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.