Senior Editor, Bantam Books

$78,000 - $82,000/Yr

Penguin Random House - New York, NY

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - New York, NY

Educational Services

About the position

The Senior Editor at Bantam Books will play a crucial role in acquiring and editing manuscripts primarily in the suspense, mystery, and thriller genres. This position is essential for revitalizing the Bantam Books imprint by bringing in new and diverse voices while maintaining relationships with agents and authors. The role involves collaboration with various departments to ensure successful publication and marketing of books.

Responsibilities

• Acquires manuscripts mainly in the suspense, mystery, crime, and cross-over book club fiction market.
• Edits manuscripts, writing editorial letters and line-editing manuscripts, and working with authors on concepts, outlines, and revisions.
• Cultivates relationships in the agent community, particularly in these categories, and develops relationships with new agents.
• Stays current on potential acquisitions of self-published authors with breakout potential.
• Positions works for target readerships and collaborates with cover, publicity, and marketing departments on publishing plans.
• Works with production and managing editorial departments on copyediting, schedule, and design.
• Prepares sales materials, including endorsement requests, flap copy, and title information sheets, along with reading guide questions and value-add materials.
• Keeps abreast of category trends and competitive titles.
• Handles daily correspondence, office work, phones, and attends required meetings.
• Handles special projects, backlist titles, and house authors as assigned, and works collaboratively with the larger team.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years book editorial experience and a solid track record of shaping commercially successful books.
• Strong editorial skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently.
• Deep category knowledge in suspense, mystery, and thrillers.
• Negotiation skills.

Benefits

• Medical/Prescription drug insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Health Care/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
• Health Savings Account
• Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k)
• Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Life/AD&D Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Student Loan Repayment Program
• Educational Assistance
• Generous paid time off