Acquisitions Editor
Harvard University
Acquisitions Editor
Harvard University
Ivy League university in Cambridge, MA
Job Summary:
Harvard Education Press (HEP) is a mission-driven, independent, university press affiliated with the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Founded in 2002, the Press is overseen by an editorial advisory board drawn from the HGSE faculty and affiliated practitioners, and peer review is at the heart of our publishing process. The HEP offices are adjacent to campus in the heart of Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA.
Our mission is to provide practitioners and policymakers with the knowledge, tools, and information they need to understand and address the educational issues facing our society today and tomorrow. As a forum for the variety of thought in the field, we drive the conversation about education.
HEP is seeking an Acquisitions Editor to acquire books on critical issues in education, books which translate educational research into practice, and books on education for a general audience. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of the discipline of education, experience in academic and/or trade publishing, editorial expertise, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to advancing the mission of Harvard Education Press.
The Acquisitions Editor will be responsible for acquiring 15-20 titles per year and will work closely with the editorial team and Executive Editor to help shape our evolving program. Part of what makes HEP unique is the close, collaborative editorial relationship authors can expect in working with us—the Acquisitions Editor is therefore responsible for developing the titles they sign, from contract to publication. The Acquisitions Editor will also help manage a talented team of interns and freelance support as needed.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
The Acquisitions Editor is expected to acquire 15-20 academic/professional and/or trade books per year in the fields of education research, policy, and practice. HEP receives many unsolicited proposals. Half of the acquisitions editor’s signings each year must be commissioned by the editor.
The Acquisitions Editor will contribute to the HEP editorial program by maintaining and expanding current publishing lists and identifying new areas of interest. The current publishing program strengths include such areas as educational leadership, instructional improvement, race and equity in education, and education policy.
The Acquisitions Editor solicits, develops, and evaluates proposals in consultation with editorial colleagues; identifies appropriate reviewers and manages the peer review process; and presents proposals to the HEP Editorial Advisory Board.
The Acquisitions Editor works with authors to develop and revise both proposals and manuscripts to ensure they incorporate feedback from peer reviewers and meet Press standards.
The Acquisitions Editor works closely with colleagues in production to ensure a smooth workflow and consults regularly with colleagues in marketing and sales to ensure books reach their target readerships.
Basic Qualifications:
Cover letter strongly encouraged.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
Academic/professional publishing background strongly preferred, with a track record of outstanding acquisitions. Knowledge of the education sector, including current research and issues in K-12 and higher education strongly preferred. Proven editorial judgment; excellent communication and networking abilities; proven initiative; self-motivated with ability to work independently; strong interpersonal skills; collaborative and team oriented. HEP will consider remote applicants, however, the ability to come into the Cambridge offices 3 days per week is strongly preferred.
Work Format Details
This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.
Benefits
Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:
Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Salary Grade: 057
Ivy League university in Cambridge, MA
Harvard University is a private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, founded in 1636 and the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. It comprises Harvard College and multiple graduate and professional schools.
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