Design Manager Job at Barefoot Books in West Concord

Who we are:

We are an award-winning, independent, women-owned and run, children’s book publisher based in Concord, MA.  Founded by two mothers in England in 1992, our mission is to open children’s hearts, minds and worlds through global stories and art. In 2017, we were named by Forbes as one of the 25 Best Small Companies in America and recognized as the standard for excellence in children’s books.

We are also a creative, passionate and driven team who love coming to work and making the best possible children’s books on the market, with a team of the best possible people. 

Role description:

As the Design Manager, you will be responsible for managing the design of various print and digital marketing materials while also supporting book design and production needs for our publishing program. Reporting to our Design Director, this is a central role at Barefoot, working closely and collaboratively with the design, marketing, editorial, and production teams, and also across the business.

Keys to success include: impeccable organizational capabilities and attention to detail; ability to understand Barefoot’s goals and prioritize effectively while adhering to deadlines and budgets; outstanding project and people management skills; knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite; a strong eye for design; and a collaborative and enthusiastic working style.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a liaison and project manager in design, coordinating effectively between marketing, production, and editorial teams
• Manage and prioritize day-to-day design team workload, delegating work and providing feedback to design team members
• Maintain and organize various asset databases and file archive servers
• Update or adapt book design files for reprints, special editions, foreign language editions, and e-books
• Art direct or design digital marketing graphics and videos for Barefoot Books’ website, email campaigns, social media, partner websites, and more
• Art direct or design print marketing materials such as catalogs, flyers, sell sheets, advertisements, posters, bookmarks, signage, and more
• Ensure brand consistency across all marketing materials and presentations
• Occasionally design picture book covers and interiors, incorporating feedback from the team, ensuring production standards in all files, and proofing for quality assurance
• Project manage key creative initiatives when necessary, defining timelines, assigning resource, coordinating feedback, and meeting deadlines
• Supervise and mentor junior-level team members and interns

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of project management experience in a creative field, publishing or children’s products preferred
• Demonstrated mastery of design principles in a design portfolio
• Impeccable attention to detail and strong execution skills 
• The ability to prioritize projects while considering the company’s commercial goals
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign, Photoshop and Premiere
• A proven ability to solve problems working collaboratively with a range of stakeholders
• Proficiency with Google Suite, Outlook, project management software and related programs. Experience with Basecamp, Dropbox, or Canva preferred.  
• Experience with managing and mentoring a team 
• A positive attitude and infectious excitement for children’s books and Barefoot’s mission

We offer: 

• A flexible, hybrid working culture, with 3 days in the office highly encouraged
• A friendly, welcoming and inclusive working environment
• Team gatherings, lunch and learns, and volunteer opportunities
• Base salary of $60-75k per annum, plus profit-sharing bonus
• Personal medical and dental benefits
• Participation in the company’s 401k plan
• Paid holidays, sick and personal time off
• Paid Paid Winter Break December 24 – 31
• Opportunities for growth and mentorship

As a publisher whose core values focus on respect for the world’s diversity and opening doors to underrepresented voices within the publishing industry, we strongly encourage candidates of color to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.

To apply, please email your portfolio, resume, and cover letter to hiring@barefootbooks.com.