Sales Manager, International (NYC Hybrid)

As the Sales Manager, International at HarperCollins Publishers, you’ll oversee both print and digital sales for the General Books and Harlequin lists across key global markets. Your main responsibilities include building relationships with our affiliate companies, curating publishing programs, managing communications with publishers and authors, and strategizing marketing and publicity campaigns tailored to each territory. You'll also create sales forecasts and identify new business development opportunities, all while ensuring that metadata is accurate.

The ideal candidate for the Sales Manager, International position at HarperCollins Publishers should have 3-5 years of experience in book publishing, particularly in sales or foreign rights. A proven track record in managing a sales territory, combined with exceptional communication skills and the ability to engage with C-Suite executives, is essential. Furthermore, the role requires a detail-oriented, self-motivated individual who is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and has strong technical knowledge of MS Office applications.

In the Sales Manager, International role at HarperCollins Publishers, you’ll oversee digital sales and merchandising in your assigned territories. This includes sharing eBook pricing, promotions, and retailer best practices. Collaborating closely with the International Marketing & Publicity Manager, you’ll develop strategies that adapt to local market conditions, ensuring that digital titles achieve maximum visibility and reach.

The salary range for the Sales Manager, International at HarperCollins Publishers is between $75,000 and $85,000. The company is committed to attracting top talent and tailors compensation offers based on the candidate's experience and qualifications. In addition to a competitive salary, employees can expect a comprehensive benefits package that addresses a variety of health and personal needs.

As a Sales Manager, International at HarperCollins Publishers, you can expect to travel 2-4 times per year to visit key customers in your designated territories. This travel is essential for cultivating strong relationships with partners, promoting titles, and ensuring that you remain engaged with the market landscape across different countries.

When building relationships with affiliates and distributors, it's crucial to establish open lines of communication and demonstrate a genuine interest in their needs and challenges. I would prioritize regular meetings, actively listen to their feedback, and create custom solutions that align with their operations and strategies. Every interaction should be approached with the goal of fostering a partnership that benefits both parties.

To effectively curate publishing programs for different international markets, I would start by analyzing market trends and consumer preferences specific to each territory. Collaborating with local teams, I’d define focus titles based on historical data and align marketing efforts with regional cultural interests. Continuous monitoring and adapting our approach will be key to success.

Managing communication with publishers and authors in multiple territories requires a structured approach. I would set regular update meetings to discuss on-sale dates, sales progress, and marketing opportunities. Utilizing project management tools can help ensure that all stakeholders are on the same page, and I’d be proactive in addressing any issues that may arise.

Developing sales and marketing strategies for backlist titles involves analyzing past sales performance to identify potential markets. I would leverage new promotional tactics like bundling with frontlist titles, creating targeted campaigns on social media, and collaborating with retailers for special offers. Ensuring that these titles remain visible and relevant is essential for maintaining a healthy backlist.

To ensure accurate metadata for international sales, I maintain a meticulous catalog of all titles and their details. This includes regular checks and updates in collaboration with the Rights department and IT teams. I also prioritize training for all relevant staff on the importance of metadata accuracy to ensure consistency across all platforms.

Success in digital sales initiatives starts with understanding the unique characteristics of each market. I would conduct regular performance analysis, test different pricing strategies, and adjust marketing tactics accordingly. Additionally, building relationships with digital retailers is essential to secure promotions that enhance visibility and increase sales.

Facing sales challenges is part and parcel of the job. One challenge I encountered was a significant decline in sales for a key title. I addressed this by re-evaluating our marketing strategy, launching a targeted social media campaign, and securing endorsements from influential bloggers and reviewers. Through strategic promotions and effective collaboration, we were able to revive interest and saw a substantial increase in sales.

Staying updated with market trends in the publishing industry involves a daily commitment to research and networking. I subscribe to industry newsletters, participate in webinars and workshops, and engage with fellow professionals through industry associations. This helps me stay informed and adaptable, ultimately benefiting the strategies I implement.

For tracking sales metrics, I rely heavily on CRM systems that allow integration with sales databases. Tools like Salesforce and Microsoft Excel provide powerful analytical capabilities. I also find that utilizing dashboards to visualize data trends helps in making informed decisions and communicating them effectively to the team.

Preparing for a meeting with C-suite executives requires thorough research and clear presentation of data. I would compile key sales metrics, market insights, and proposed strategies that address their specific concerns. Practicing my delivery and anticipating questions to respond confidently is also integral to ensuring a productive dialogue during the meeting.