Publicist Job at University Of Notre Dame in South Bend

Position Information

Job Title: Publicist

The University of Notre Dame Press, a leading publisher in religion, philosophy, political science, history, medieval studies, and Latin American studies, seeks a creative and collaborative Publicist. The Publicist will generate publicity campaigns, promotional copy, and innovative outreach strategies for approximately 55 books per year, collaborating across departments to expand the impact of books and authors. This position works closely with Press authors, serving as the primary author liaison for the marketing department and providing support and guidance in pitching op eds, interviews, book events, and other content to broaden the reach of each publication.

This position reports to the Assistant Director of the Press and is an integral member of the marketing team, which works collaboratively to meet annual revenue goals and enhance the reach and reputation of Notre Dame Press and the University of Notre Dame. The University of Notre Dame Press operates on a hybrid work schedule. Since the Publicist organizes and leads local events, candidates with a willingness to be located in the South Bend area are preferred, but experienced remote candidates will be considered.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include:

1. Crafts and implements comprehensive publicity strategies for 55 new academic and trade (or general interest) books each year, allocating appropriate Press resources based on potential impact.
2. Serves as the primary author contact for marketing and publicity efforts.
3. Writes and edits persuasive promotional copy for books, including descriptive copy, press releases, blog posts, and other written materials.
4. Solicits advance praise (blurbs) for books and submits books for relevant awards.
5. Secures book reviews and coverage, including pitching relevant media outlets, arranging author interviews, and supplying requested materials.
6. Builds strong relationships with local, national, and international media outlets; scholarly journals; and campus communication partners.
7. Supports authors in arranging and publicizing book launches and readings, independent bookstore events, and virtual and in-person book symposia.
8. Represents the Press at academic conferences and local author events.
9. Tracks and reports on media and social media coverage for the Press and specific books.
10. Working closely with the Exhibits and Digital Marketing Program Manager, promotes author events, media hits, and other book coverage on the Press’s social media networks.
11. Regularly evaluates the impact of publicity efforts, including remaining up to date on publicity and social media innovations and best practices.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
2. 2 years of relevant marketing, communications, or publishing experience at a publisher, university, or non-profit.
3. Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging initiatives.
4. Team player who sees the success of the Press and colleagues as integral to their own success.
5. Superior written and verbal communications skills.
6. Strong project management skills, including demonstrated ability to balance competing demands and deadlines.
7. Excellent attention to detail.
8. Ability to build relationships and interact with a variety of stakeholders.
9. Good technical skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office or Google Workspace, and willingness to learn other programs as needed.
10. Ability to travel and work occasional weekends or evenings as related to events.
11. Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. 3 years of experience in marketing or communications with a university press or trade book publisher.
2. Familiarity with WordPress or other website management platforms, MailChimp or other email marketing platforms, and social media tools and strategies.
3. Basic knowledge of graphic software like Adobe Creative Suite or Canva.
4. Ability to move boxes of books weighing 40 pounds.

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff, and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to building a culturally diverse workplace. We strongly encourage applications from female and minority candidates and others that will enhance our community.