Sr Editor - Publishing

$67,000 - $103,000/Yr

Mattel - El Segundo, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

El Segundo, CA

Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods

About the position

Mattel, Inc. is seeking an experienced and self-motivated Senior Editor to join its publishing group. The team focuses on creating high-quality books and other publishing assets for brands including Barbie, Barney's World, Fisher-Price, Hot Wheels, Little People, Masters of the Universe, Monster High, Polly Pocket, Thomas and Friends, and more. The Senior Editor will primarily oversee original middle-grade and YA fiction for the vertical list, with select opportunities to work on vertical picture books and adult nonfiction. This role involves managing select YA and adult programs being developed by our licensees, mostly ongoing Partworks. Reporting to and working closely with the Editorial Director, the ideal candidate will have robust agent and author contacts, be extremely creative, and possess the ability to juggle multiple projects simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Manage and independently edit a list of 10-15 titles for the vertical list plus oversee the development of several licensee programs.
• Work with the Editorial Director to identify new book opportunities for vertical and licensee publishing lists.
• Responsible for all stages of book development including brainstorming story and format ideas; sourcing and negotiating with agents, writers, and packagers; providing line and developmental editing; commenting on layouts and art; and corresponding with copyeditors.
• Collaborate with Design, Production, and Operations as needed to meet deadlines and ensure high quality.
• Liaise with Brand and Content teams to create original stories, vet or refine book concepts, and gather supporting info and assets.
• Ensure all materials have been routed to any necessary internal and external partners for approval at key milestones and make any appropriate changes.
• Maintain title information including metadata, pricing requests, and P&Ls.
• Represent the publishing team at internal cross-category brand meetings and speak to the publishing team's asset needs and strategy.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years' experience in children's publishing, preferably licensed publishing.
• A thorough understanding of the publishing process and children's book market.
• A creative and detailed-oriented person with excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision with a wide degree of creativity and independent thinking.
• Ability to multitask, adjust quickly, organize, and re-prioritize.
• Openness to give and take creative direction and embrace change.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work calmly and maintain high standards in a fast-paced work environment and approach projects with flexibility and resourcefulness.
• Excellent attention to detail and proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Outlook with a working knowledge of Excel, Powerpoint, and Teams. Familiarity with Smartsheets and Workfront is a plus.
• Optimistic attitude and love of toys appreciated.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with Smartsheets and Workfront is a plus.

Benefits

• Flexible work model designed to empower a culture of growth, optimism, and wellbeing.
• Opportunities for collaboration and innovation within a performance-driven environment.