Director of Publicity, Children's Division at Abrams Books in St. Petersburg, Florida

Job Description:

About us

Founded in 1949, ABRAMS was the first company in the United States to specialize in publishing art and illustrated books. The company continues to publish critically acclaimed and bestselling works in the areas of art, photography, cooking, craft, comics, interior and garden design, entertainment, fashion, and popular culture as well as narrative non-fiction and new works of fiction for adults; children's books ranging from middle grade to young adult fiction to picture books to board books. ABRAMS creates and distributes brilliantly designed books with the highest production values under the following imprints: Abrams; Abrams ComicArts; Megascope; Surely Books; Abrams Image; Abrams Press; The Overlook Press; Cernunnos; Cameron + Company; Abrams Books for Young Readers; Amulet Books; Abrams Appleseed; and Magic Cat. ABRAMS also distributes books for Booth-Clibborn Editions, Bungie, Alain Ducasse Edition, Editions de La Martiniere, Editions BPI, Global Golf Group, Lucky Spool, Milky Way Picture Books, The Museum of Modern Art, SelfMadeHero, Tate Publishing, V&A Publishing, and The Vendome Press.

Job Purpose:

The Director of Publicity, Children's Division, is a leadership role responsible for developing, communicating and executing publicity strategies to promote children's books and authors ranging from novelty/board books through young adult titles. This decision-making role involves overseeing publicity campaigns, managing a team, building relationships with media, and enhancing the visibility and success of children's titles in the market.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop comprehensive publicity strategies for children's books, aligning them with the overall marketing and sales goals.

Create detailed campaign plans for book launches, author events, and other promotional activities.

Lead and manage the publicity team, providing mentorship, guidance, and professional development opportunities.

Plan and execute publicity strategy for high level publicity campaigns, including media and tours/events, for division's leading authors, franchises, and brand/license partners.

Collaborate closely with other departments, including marketing, editorial, sales, and design, to ensure cohesive and integrated campaigns.

Cultivate strong relationships with authors/illustrators and agents, to establish trust and beneficial collaboration.

Pitch seasonal lists and title-specific features, interviews, and reviews to major national media contacts to secure coverage for books and authors. Maintain a robust network of media contacts in print, broadcast, online, and social media platforms relevant to children's publishing.

Represent and coordinate the Children's Publicity voice and vision in weekly acquisition meetings

Coordinate book launches, author tours (including the annual Wimpy Kid tour), and events to generate excitement and engage readers.

Manage potential crisis situations related to authors, books, or public perception, responding with transparency and professionalism.

Work with Executive Director to develop and manage the publicity budget, allocating resources effectively to support various campaigns and activities.

Monitor expenses and ensure cost-effective strategies.

Monitor the effectiveness of publicity campaigns, track media coverage, and measure the impact on book sales and brand visibility.

Use data to refine strategies and enhance future campaigns.

Foster a collaborative and creative work environment across departments that encourages innovation.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements:

Undergraduate degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field preferred.

10+ years experience in book publicity, with a focus on children's titles.

Proven leadership skills and experience managing publicity teams.

Strong media contacts and relationships within the children's publishing industry.

Proficiency in social media platforms and online engagement strategies.

Strategic mindset with a data-driven approach to campaign planning and analysis.

Crisis management skills and the ability to navigate sensitive situations.

Deep understanding of industry trends and best practices in children's publishing and publicity.

Knowledge/Skills:

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage complex tasks and priorities.

Strong multitasking abilities and adaptability to changing priorities.

Excellent communication, writing, and interpersonal skills.

Creative thinker with the ability to generate unique and impactful publicity ideas Proactive and resourceful problem-solving skills.

Easily builds and maintains relationships with different management levels and personalities; Proven ability to work cross-functionally across departments
Open-minded, innovative, proactive self-starter who can work well independently yet flourishes in a collaborative environment

What we offer:

Competitive salary
Hybrid work schedule
Paid Holidays
Summer Fridays
Company-paid time off during Christmas week
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Flexible Spending Account
Life Insurance
Health Benefits
Retirement savings plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

This position is based in our New York City office with a hybrid work schedule (in-office 3 days per week).

Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and cover letter for consideration.

Salary range: $100,000 - $120,000

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