Program Manager Childrens’ Books (d/f/m) – London

gestalten is recruiting an experienced Children’s Book Program Manager (d/f/m) responsible for the development and management of our growing Little Gestalten children’s publishing programme. Responsibilities will include the ongoing management of the publishing program from a brand, editorial and business perspective, pursuing exciting new opportunities and partnerships, and developing creative content, formats and stories. and originals.

The successful candidate will need to demonstrate an excellent track record in the creative acquisition and production of quality children’s books. The editorial program should balance the commercial expectations of the company while capturing the values ​​of Little Gestalten.

This is a full time position. The role can be based in Berlin (Germany) or London (UK) or can be fully remote.

Where your expertise is needed:

  • Reporting directly to the Publisher, you are responsible for shaping the Little Gestalten footprint and creating a growing list of quality, best-selling illustrated children’s books, as well as building, supervising and mentoring your team.
  • You acquire, develop, and publish 10-15 books a year, including hardbacks, highly illustrated non-fiction, and fiction books.
  • You assess the strategic and economic potential of projects and assess their quality, originality and product-market fit.
  • You negotiate offers and conclude contracts.
  • You manage and monitor schedules and deadlines, always keeping an overview of the publishing schedule.
  • You build and maintain new and existing relationships with authors, illustrators, agents and industry professionals and understand each stakeholder’s skills, strengths and weaknesses to identify the best team to produce a particular title.
  • You manage and advise authors and illustrators, oversee designers and production managers by being a guiding voice in conversations about layouts, covers and packaging.
  • You work closely with sales and marketing on title positioning and promotion efforts and with foreign rights to support licensing efforts.

What we expect from you?

  • You have at least five years of paid professional experience in children’s book publishing and will be happy to devote your many talents through the editorial production process, creating publications that are relevant, engaging and inspiring for young gestalten readers .
  • A passion for children’s entertainment and a solid knowledge of the children’s book market are essential.
  • You can spot future trends, identify strategic opportunities, envision an end product and bring that vision to life.
  • You bring excellent editorial skills – across age groups and categories, including fiction and non-fiction, with an eye for detail as well as big picture.
  • Knowledge of the manufacturing and production process, great contacts for licensing, agents, packers and designer/editors
  • Fluency in written and spoken German or English

Why gestalt?

  • Be part of a globally recognized brand and work with an extensive network of partners and creative talent around the world.
  • Join a highly qualified, experienced and motivated team that values ​​respect, transparency, pragmatism and collaboration.
  • Work in a professional environment with a conveniently located office in the bustling heart of Berlin-Kreuzberg, trust-based working hours and the ability to work remotely.

About Us

gestalten is a creative global publisher of quality, cutting-edge illustrated books. We document and anticipate vital movements in architecture, visual culture, design and fashion, escapism, food and drink, travel and contemporary art. In 2014, Little Gestalten joined the literary ranks and secured a place for readers of all ages in the world of gestalten.

Coming from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, the gestalten team is brought together by a collective interest in the creative world. The gestalten family is global and supported by an extensive network of contributors and industry-leading voices across all creative fields. The seed of every gestalten idea begins at our headquarters in the heart of Berlin-Kreuzberg. From initial idea and concept through design, production to distribution and communication to everything brand related, our vision is brought together by a close network of individuals involved throughout.

gestalten is committed to creating a diverse environment. Therefore, we welcome all applications – regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social background, religion/worldview, disability, age, living situation, sexual orientation and identity. All jobs are decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and company needs.

“How to Apply” Details:

Interested?

Please submit your CV and cover letter, including something you particularly like from Gestalten’s children’s list and something you miss, using our online form: https://gestalten.jobs.personio.de /job/417396?_pc=429258#apply

Closing Date: 31.08.2021

Salary bracket: £40,000 – 46,000 per year