Full-Time Managing Editor Christian Art Gifts/Publishers is seeking an experienced full-time Managing Editor to be a part of our growing publishing team.
Managing Editor
Location: Bloomingdale, IL
Reports To: Vice President of Publishing
Department: Editorial
Employment Type: Full-Time
About Us
Christian Art Publishers is a growing Christian publishing company committed to creating books, devotionals, and gift products that inspire readers to grow in their relationship with God and strengthen their faith. We publish 30-40 titles each year across categories such as devotionals, prayer books, guided prayer journals, gift books, and other gift resources.
We are seeking a Managing Editor who is passionate about excellence in Christian publishing, thrives in a collaborative environment, and can oversee the editorial workflow from manuscript to final product, focusing on detail and excellence.
Position Summary
The Managing Editor will play a key role in our continued growth and success as the operational leader within the editorial department. This person manages the full publishing process, ensuring that manuscripts move efficiently from acquisition through editing, design, and production. The Managing Editor will also contribute to and execute our editorial strategy, help shape our publishing list, and track editorial and production deadlines ensuring that every title moves smoothly from acquisition to production.
Key Responsibilities
Editorial & Project Management
- Work with the Director of Editorial to provide administrative oversight for the publishing team, assigning and supervising work for editors, proofreaders, typesetters, and freelance contributors.
- Edit 1-3 projects per season (can increase or decrease depending on other responsibilities).
- Maintain and update publishing resources including CMOS subscriptions, house style guide, templates, production calendars, project trackers, metadata, and BISAC codes.
- Prepare materials for weekly publishing meetings and follow-up on next steps for publishing projects. Review manuscripts and develop project briefs, including format and design specifications.
- Coordinate publishing projects across editorial, design, production, marketing, and sales departments. Request schedules and estimates for production. Work with the design department to schedule cover and interior design. Prepare briefs for the marketing team. Stage coordination meetings as needed to plan for production, marketing, and release.
- Oversee project schedules, ensuring all titles meet deadlines for editing, typesetting, proofreading, design, and production in relationship to the timeline for marketing, title sales sheets, and catalog.
- Oversee publishing catalog production, coordinating with production and marketing.
- Work closely with the Director of Editorial and VP of Publishing to ensure content quality, theological accuracy, and brand alignment.
Quality Control
- Review manuscripts for consistency, structure, and tone, ensuring all content meets editorial standards for clarity and theological integrity.
- Approve final files for covers and final proofs for interiors before production. Check and approve blue proofs from the printer.
- Receive and review advance copies of books before approving them for release.
Collaboration & Communication
- Support the VP of Publishing and the Director of Editorial in implementing workflows and processes for best practices across all departments.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the editorial, design, and production departments.
- Communicate clearly with authors and agents about timelines, revisions, and expectations.
- Participate in acquisitions and planning meetings to evaluate new book ideas and schedules.
- Partner with the marketing and sales teams to align editorial plans with seasonal campaigns and product launches.
Leadership & Process Development
- Work alongside the Director of Editorial to train, mentor, and guide junior editors, editorial assistants, and proofreaders.
- Work with the editorial team to develop and maintain editorial standards and workflow systems.
- Identify areas for process improvement and implement tools for greater efficiency.
- Manage freelance editors, writers, and proofreaders as needed.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, or related field (Master’s preferred). Biblical/theological education preferred.
- 5+ years of editorial experience in book publishing, preferably Christian or inspirational publishing.
- Proven experience managing multiple projects, deadlines, and editorial teams.
- Solid understanding of Christian theology and sensitivity to denominational diversity.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Airtable).
Personal Qualities
- Alignment with the mission and values of Christian Art Gifts.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Collaborative, team-oriented leader with a servant-hearted approach.
- Creative problem solver who thrives in a fast-paced publishing environment.
- Commitment to excellence, accuracy, and integrity in all work.
Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Professional development opportunities.
- The opportunity to impact lives through Christ-centered content.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $65,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
Experience:
- Editorial: 5 years (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Bloomingdale, IL 60108: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
