Project Manager - No longer accepting applications (Remote)
Thanks to everyone who applied by the deadline of March 1st, 2024. We will continue to update our jobs page with future opportunities!
About Wise Ink:
Wise Ink is a hybrid publishing and media company that partners with leaders and CEOs, speakers, organizations, media personalities, educators, activists, storytellers, and entrepreneurs to build their books and brands with intention. We provide consulting, coaching, creative, production, marketing, and distribution services to help authors and clients bring their visions to life.
As a remote-based company, we believe in fostering a collaborative and positive work environment that encourages creativity and innovation. Our workplace aligns with our collective values of social and racial justice, freedom from a 9-5 office, and the power of writing and art to change things for the better.
We believe that we can go further together—which is why we support authors and thought leaders with strategy and execution and each other with a team-based approach.
We’d love for you to join our team.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a junior or senior project manager to serve as on-the-ground support for our diverse roster of clients. The project manager will play a pivotal role in guiding authors through the entire book publishing process, from writing and editing to production and marketing. This individual will be responsible for managing multiple projects concurrently, ensuring they stay on schedule, are within budget, and meet the highest quality standards. Higher education degrees are not required. Standard working hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. CST, but applicants can be based anywhere in the US.
Requirements:
Proven Publishing Experience: Applicants must have a minimum of 1 year of experience working at a book publishing company. (This experience must be outside of internships.) Special priority is given to applicants who have worked as a project manager at a publishing company or who have hybrid / self-publishing experience.
Strong Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with authors, internal teams, and external partners. Familiarity with the Chicago Manual of Style is preferred but not mandatory.
Organizational Skills: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects at a time, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Client-Focused: A passion for working directly with authors and guiding them through the publishing process, with an emphasis on delivering exceptional customer experiences.
Data Management Expertise: Preferred experience in gathering and organizing book specifications for printers and distribution partners. Experience with Microsoft Word and familiarity with ClickUp or other project management software are a plus but not required.
Team Player: A positive and enthusiastic collaborator who can work effectively with cross-functional teams.
Adaptive Learning: Willingness to learn and stay updated on industry trends and advancements in book publishing.
Responsibilities:
Author Support: Provide coaching and support to authors throughout the writing, editing, and book production stages. Serve as the main point of contact for authors, maintain regular communication to address concerns, provide project updates, and elevate client relations with a personable and encouraging communication style.
Liaison Between Teams: Act as a liaison between the marketing and production teams and freelancers, coordinating efforts and ensuring seamless collaboration to bring books to fruition.
Project Guidance: Lead authors through the book publishing process, from concept to completion. Offer expert advice and assistance in creative decision-making, big-picture branding for the book, and selecting the appropriate creative teams.
Budget and Timeline Management: Manage invoicing and track project budgets, ensuring freelancers stay within budget and advising authors on cost-effective decisions without compromising on quality. Monitor project timelines, setting deadlines for both freelancers and author clients, to meet target dates effectively.
Data Management:
Gathering Book Specifications: Collaborate with authors and creative teams to gather the comprehensive project details required for printing and distribution partners. Ensure all technical and formatting details align with industry standards.
Tracking Changes and Updates: Implement robust systems for tracking changes, updates, and revisions made to each project. Maintain accurate documentation of modifications to the project scope, ensuring all stakeholders are informed of changes.
Client-Facing Role: Confidently conduct meetings and touchpoints with authors, addressing their questions and concerns while maintaining a positive and enthusiastic attitude.
Project Portfolio Management: Oversee and manage 20–30 active book projects simultaneously, ensuring each receives the attention and resources necessary for successful completion.
COMPENSATION:
We offer a competitive compensation package based on level of experience (junior or senior project manager), including health insurance, a health savings account (HSA) with monthly company contributions, and a 401(k) with a company match. This role provides a flexible, remote work environment that allows you to thrive while helping clients and authors reach their goals. If you have a passion for project management, good communication skills, an eye for detail, and the desire to make a meaningful impact in the world of book publishing, we would love to hear from you.
To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, contact information for 2–3 relevant references, and any relevant writing samples by following this link. The application deadline is March 1. We look forward to reviewing your application!
The 2019 Diversity Baseline Survey found that 79 percent of the publishing industry identified as White, 88 percent were straight, and 92 percent were non-disabled. The book industry has the power to shape culture in big and small ways, and the people behind the books make a huge difference in determining which stories are amplified and which are shut out. Wise Ink is committed to diversity in publishing and will prioritize applications from marginalized groups.