Cornell University Press Editor-in-Chief (Hybrid)

About the position Cornell University Press seeks applicants for the open position of Editor-in-Chief The Editor-in-Chief acquires a full list of books in multiple fields while also directing and managing the acquisitions department of the Cornell University Press. As a senior leader they plan, direct, and regularly review the book publishing program to ensure quality and financial goals of the Press are met; supervise acquisitions editors and editorial assistants, set short- and long-term goals for individual editors and review performance; in conjunction with other Press managers set seasonal lists and monitor production schedules; projects, reviews and analyzes financial performance of the Press’ lists; represents the Press to other University units; represents the Press at scholarly meetings to professional societies, and at public events. All acquisitions editors, including the imprint editorial directors, report to the Editor-in-Chief. This hybrid position is located in Ithaca, New York. You will typically be asked to perform this role remotely at a location in the United States 2 days a week, and on-campus 3 days a week. The specifics of this arrangement will be reviewed with you and the University must approve the desired remote work location. The University reserves the right to modify, suspend, revoke, or terminate the hybrid work arrangement at any time.

Responsibilities

• Acquires a full list of books in multiple fields
• Directs and manages the acquisitions department of the Cornell University Press
• Plans, directs, and regularly reviews the book publishing program to ensure quality and financial goals of the Press are met
• Supervises acquisitions editors and editorial assistants, set short- and long-term goals for individual editors and review performance
• In conjunction with other Press managers set seasonal lists and monitor production schedules
• Projects, reviews and analyzes financial performance of the Press’ lists
• Represents the Press to other University units
• Represents the Press at scholarly meetings to professional societies, and at public events

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with five to seven years’ experience in book publishing, demonstrated success as an acquiring editor, thorough knowledge of book markets and trends.
• Demonstrated ability to manage staff effectively.
• Knowledge of, and experience with electronic publishing initiatives and protocols.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and demonstrated ability to work effectively with others with a wide range of constituencies.
• Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy and developing and implementing new strategies.
• Experience in preparing budgets and analyzing results.
• Thorough knowledge of copyright and fair use laws.
• Demonstrated skill in understanding cultural differences.
• Visa sponsorship for this position is not available.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working for a university press is preferred.
• MA/PhD preferred.