Job Title: Acquisitions and Development Editor

Department: Editorial
Reports to: Editorial Director
Location: Phillipsburg, NJ
Type: Full-time

Job Summary:

The Acquisitions and Development Editor is responsible for identifying and acquiring new content, guiding authors through the editorial process, and helping to shape manuscripts to meet market and audience expectations. This role requires excellent communication skills, a deep understanding of the market, and the ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining high editorial standards. The editor will collaborate closely with authors and internal teams to ensure the successful development and publication of content.

Key Responsibilities:

• Content Acquisition:
• Identify potential authors, projects, and content that align with the company’s editorial vision and market demands.
• Review proposals, manuscripts, and submissions to assess their potential for acquisition.
• Build relationships with literary agents, authors, and industry professionals to source new talent and content.
• Conduct market research to identify emerging trends and areas of opportunity in publishing.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with authors, agents, and rights holders.

• Manuscript Development:
• Work closely with authors to develop their manuscripts, providing feedback on structure, pacing, content, theological accuracy, and market alignment.
• Guide authors through the revision process, offering constructive criticism and editorial suggestions.
• Ensure that content meets quality standards, aligns with the company’s commitment to the Westminster Standards , and meets audience expectations.
• Collaborate with other departments (marketing, sales, design) to ensure that projects are developed with a market-focused approach.

• Market Awareness:
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitive titles, and market shifts.
• Attend industry events, book fairs, and conferences to network and build relationships with potential authors and agents.
• Analyze sales data and audience feedback to inform future acquisitions and editorial decisions.
• Administrative Maintenance:
• Regularly store, organize, and update logs and files throughout the acquisitions process.
• Coordinate and schedule meetings between editors and authors.
• Manage and respond to correspondence on behalf of acquisitions’ personnel, ensuring timely and professional communication.
• Take detailed notes during meetings, capturing key discussions and action items to support effective follow-up and project continuity.

Qualifications:

• 3–5 years of editorial experience in book publishing, digital media, or a related industry.
• Must hold to the tenets of Reformed Christianity as outlined in the Westminster Confession of Faith.
• A seminary education is preferred but not necessary.
• Must be familiar with Presbyterianism and conservative Presbyterian denominations in the United States.
• Strong writing, editing, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proven ability to develop and nurture author relationships.
• Ability to work to deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with market research, trends analysis, and audience development.
• Mastery of Microsoft Word.

Preferred Skills:

• Creative thinking with the ability to identify unique opportunities in content development.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a collaborative team environment.
• Knowledge of rights, contracts, and negotiations in publishing is a plus.
• Familiarity with InDesign is a plus.

To apply, email acquisitions@prpbooks.com with your résumé and a cover letter. A single writing sample is welcome but not required. P&R's Editorial Director is Ms. Amanda Martin.