Freelance Developmental Editing Jobs in Tennessee

Overview

HarperChristian Resources (HCR) is looking for a Senior Acquisitions Editor to join our dynamic team. HCR creates original proprietary Bible study content and Bible study 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 will oversee and manage new titles from Pub Board acceptance through editorial process management to printer-ready files. The Senior Acquisitions Editor will interface 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 that are located outside of the area. Travel may be required based on the need of the business.

Responsibilities

• Actively acquires 12 to 14 titles per year, consistent with publishing strategy and financial goals. Develops Publishing Announcement forms, financial product details, and contract request forms.
• Possesses expertise in the landscape of the Christian church, Bible study resources, as well as an understanding of cultural, entertainment, and publishing trends. Also possess strong editorial and writing skills.
• Demonstrates strong editorial judgment about which authors to acquire and re-sign; negotiates with authors and/or agents in a manner that is fair and within financial benchmarks; and develops, nurtures, and grows those author and agent relationships.
• Oversees editorial development of Bible studies and curriculum acquired, including the delivery of expert and timely editorial work and strong author management. Will be responsible for securing qualified freelance writers, video production teams, submitting approved content to copyeditors/proofreaders, and selecting internal or external composition/interior designers.
• Shepherds the titling, packaging, and cataloging process for acquired titles.
• Provides timely communication with current and potential authors and their agents regarding the status of their propsals and/or contracted projects.
• Communicates with authors throughout the development process and serves as the lead/project manager until the project is deemed complete and accepted and is submitted to the printer.
• Responds to inquiries from sales, marketing, and other HCCP teams on matters related to the project.
• Represents HCR persuasively within HCCP and within the broader publishing community, including at author events, conferences, and industry events.
• Participants in brand meetings (where applicable) and other author-related meetings.
• Influences and informally mentors junior editorial staff.

Qualifications

Knowledge: Expert market knowledge, proven leadership ability, proven success in acquisitions, proven ability to maintain strong relationships with internal and external constituencies.

Work Experience: Proven success as an acquisitions editor with 7-8 years' editorial experience or other relevant publishing experience.

Education: BA in Humanities, English, Journalism, or Theology or equivalent degree required. MA degree preferred.

Industry Knowledge:

• 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.
• A strong grasp of proper English, grammar, and an eagle-eye for errors.
• Editing experience, including substantive editing, editorial project management, and speaking into 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.
• Be well versed and engaged in social media, including emerging trends and voices in areas like TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, Meta, and more as it relates to authors to acquire.
• Understanding the role of the church and ministry for 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 at any given time
• 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 the context of a team environment with shared processes and goals. Innovation and creativity skills are crucial for success
• Relationship builder, networker, diplomatic and collaborative
• Outstanding communication and public speaking skills
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving marketplace and environment
• Able to travel as needed

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is an equal opportunity employer.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, in our job application and/or interview process. If you need assistance or accommodation in completing your application, due to a disability, email us at TalentManagement@harpercollins.com. Note: we will only respond to accommodation requests.