Job Posting: Acquisitions and Development Editor

Fernwood is an independent Canadian publisher with radically left political views. We seek social transformation through publishing books of non-fiction and fiction for general public, academic and scholarly readers. We publish books that acknowledge, confront and contest all forms of oppression and exploitation. We believe that in publishing books that challenge the status quo and imagine new ways forward we participate in the struggle for a just, equitable society.

The acquisitions and development editor is responsible for both recruiting authors and developing manuscripts/book projects. Along with other acquisitions and development editors and our marketing team, the A&D editor will assist in planning and achieving Fernwood’s overall editorial publishing goals and mandate.

Acquisitions involves working with our editorial group to identify gaps in our publishing program and determine plans to fill them. Recruiting authors and book projects occurs through developing and maintaining relationships with potential and current authors and other progressive thinkers, both in postsecondary education and among activists and political actors. This aspect of the work requires some travel mainly, but not only, within Canada to universities, conferences and other events.

Development involves assessing and sometimes assisting authors with developing book proposals, evaluating and presenting cold submissions in editorial meetings and, for those proposals that are accepted by our editorial group, working with authors to develop their manuscripts through to the production stage. In particular, manuscript development requires arranging and assessing external reviews and undertaking structural and stylistic editing with authors. Development editors work closely with marketing and promotions departments to build a plan for each book to reach its audience.

The acquisitions and development editor will also be involved in other editorial and administrative tasks at Fernwood including writing grant applications, attending local events and other tasks as needed.

Fernwood Publishing recognizes the importance of Black and Indigenous editorial guidance and expertise; as such, this position is reserved for a Black or Indigenous editor to build Black and Indigenous representation within Fernwood and increase the representation of Black and Indigenous people in leadership positions in the publishing industry. The ideal person for this position will have a graduate degree in the social sciences or humanities. Experience in publishing or in related work (like academia) is essential. Demonstrated commitment to justice-seeking activity is necessary, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of the Fernwood team.

The salary is $55,000 and includes health benefits. Ideally this position will be located in our Halifax or Winnipeg office but a remote position will be considered. We welcome expressions of interest by June 30, 2023.

Please send your resume and cover letter to editorial@fernpub.ca. Please note we can only respond to applicants selected for an interview.

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