Looking to Join the Editorial Team at UMPH?

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

Essential Job Functions

• Editorial Execution
  • Performs developmental editing, line editing, and content shaping on ~12–15 titles annually
  • Manages author communications during manuscript development and production
  • Ensures manuscripts meet editorial standards and align with theological/practical positioning
• Product Line Management
  • Manages editorial calendar, production schedules, and title lifecycle
  • Coordinates with Production Editor, Marketing, and Sales to ensure timely, budget-conscious releases
  • Compiles and shares quarterly product performance data (sales, engagement, ROI)
• Acquisitions Support
  • Conducts market research and competitor analysis to identify gaps and opportunities
  • Assists with author prospecting, first-stage manuscript evaluation, and proposal review
  • Administers contracts and rights/licensing logistics under Senior Editor guidance
• Cross-Functional Coordination
  • Serves as daily liaison across teams (design, marketing, sales, digital)
  • Manages Ministry Matters content pipeline and weekly newsletter production
  • Contributes to special projects (curriculum pilots, conference resources, digital bundles)
• Innovation & Process Improvement
  • Recommends improvements to editorial and production workflows
  • Suggests new content formats and distribution strategies (short-form, video, hybrid products)
  • Creates and maintains author support tools (guidelines, onboarding, communication templates)

These essential job functions are not intended to cover all work details or the occasional performance of other tasks as assigned by the supervisor.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

Common or Complex Problem-Solving Challenges

• Balancing day-to-day tactical and longer-term strategic considerations for multiple titles with overlapping production schedules
• Collaborating closely with internal stakeholders for efficiency in operational processes and alignment in strategic goals
• Identifying market opportunities for new authors and titles

Authority & Accountability

• Authority over editorial operations for assigned title list
• Authority over author relations and communications for assigned title list, escalating to Senior Editor as needed
• Authority over Ministry Matters content
• Shared accountability for achieving schedule and budget goals for assigned title list

Regular Contacts & Stakeholders

INTERNAL

• Publishing (editorial, design), Marketing (research, communications), Sales, Operations (print and digital production/distribution, inventory, contracts/rights) teams – for execution of all stages of assigned product lifecycles

EXTERNAL

• Current and prospective authors
• Contract editorial and design resources

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Education, Experience, & Certifications (as applicable)

• A Bachelor’s degree in English, publishing, or related field
• At least three (3) years of experience in publishing or editorial work, including project management experience

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

REQUIRED

• Excellent writing and editing skills and attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Intermediate proficiency with office and publishing software suites

PREFERRED

• Knowledge of the United Methodist Church and markets served by UMPH

AI-Enabled Workplace

The United Methodist Publishing House is committed to maximizing the impact of artificial intelligence by adopting and integrating AI tools across our work.  These technologies are vital to enhancing productivity, fostering creativity, and strengthening decision-making.  All staff members are expected to engage thoughtfully and responsibly with AI as part of their professional responsibilities.  Core expectations include:

• Responsible AI Integration – Leverage AI tools strategically to streamline workflows, generate actionable insights, and deliver exceptional outcomes that advance our mission.
• Critical Evaluation & Oversight – Apply professional judgment and critical thinking when reviewing, refining, and validating all AI-generated content and recommendations to ensure accuracy and alignment with our standards.
• Continuous Learning & Innovation – Maintain curiosity and adaptability toward emerging AI technologies, actively contributing to innovative practices within your area of expertise while supporting organizational growth.
• Ethical & Secure Practice – Uphold UMPH’s commitment to ethical, transparent, and secure AI usage, ensuring all applications align with our mission, values, and community standards.

Equal Employment Opportunity

UMPH is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.