Publicist

This is an exciting opportunity to join Candlewick Press, Holiday House and Peachtree, some of the world's leading publishers of books and content for young readers, renowned for truly original publishing and outstanding quality. Reporting to the Director of Publicity, this position will have a key role in the group PR team, with significant responsibility for their own publicity campaigns, including media and event outreach for assigned projects and series, with particular focus on brands, board books, picture books, and younger series. The ideal candidate will work to develop and manage relationships with authors and illustrators across our various houses and imprints, as well as reviewers, journalists, podcasters, key online contacts, and event coordinators. The Publicist will regularly interface and collaborate with our marketing, sales, and editorial teams to strategize and execute promotional plans at a high level.

This is a full-time position based in Somerville, MA or New York, NY with the option for hybrid work. The salary for this role is $55,000. A comprehensive benefits package is offered including medical, dental, life and disability insurance; flex spending and 401k plans, voluntary benefits, generous paid time off and much more!

To Apply: submit a resume and cover letter via e-mail to us-careers@walkerbooksgroup.com, referencing "Publicist"

All children deserve to see themselves, their families, and their communities represented in the books they read. As children's book publishers, it is our goal to ensure that the books and content we publish authentically and joyfully reflect the world around us. As an employer, we are committed to creating and maintaining a supportive working environment where everyone is included, valued, and empowered to do their best and most creative work. As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome candidates from all backgrounds without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, sex, or any other characteristic protected by law and those not yet protected by law.

Responsibilities will include but not be limited to the following:

• Involvement in creation of publicity plans for upcoming lists and key backlist properties and creators
• Working with Director of Publicity and wider team to develop strategic exposure for authors, illustrators, and titles, including involvement in development and management of the budget for these projects
• Executing campaigns independently for titles each season with particular focus on brands, board books, picture books, younger series, and topical titles including bestselling and established key properties
• Planning and managing the creation of items needed for promotion and publicity of assigned titles, including press releases, select digital assets, and PR related promotional items
• Drafting press materials and persuasive pitch letters to place stories and interviews to print, online, and broadcast media
• Planning and coordinating author appearances, tours, and events, including travel arrangements, media bookings, event promotion, and coordination of book orders and materials. Traveling with select authors as needed.]
• Acting as a department lead on Muck Rack list management, with mission to grow and cultivate list of publicity contacts, including key journalists, bloggers, and podcasters
• Working in close collaboration with PR team as team lead on organization, submissions, and booking for select consumer-facing book festivals
• Acting as a department lead on Edelweiss event grid coordination and outreach
• Assisting with drafting and editorial consultation on acquisition marketing plans for younger brands and early chapter books
• Preparing publicity recaps and title-specific reports to share media coverage, event updates, and tour confirmations internally in support of sales and marketing efforts
• Preparing for, attending, and presenting at various internal and external meeting, including but not limited to weekly Sales & Marketing meetings and seasonal launches, sales conferences and preview meetings
• Performing other tasks as needed

Qualifications

• 3+ years of publicity experience, preferably in publishing or children's media
• Proficiency with Muck Rack or similar media database platforms preferred.
• Strong presentation and communication skills, including comfort presenting titles to media and internal teams.
• Knowledge of the children's book market, including school and library channels.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven media pitching experience; established media contacts are a plus.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple creators, campaigns and deadlines simultaneously
• Dedication to providing creator care
• Knowledge of virtual event platforms and social media strategy
• Passion for children's literature and literacy advocacy is a plus

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