Library Publishing Lead

Auckland Council; Auckland; On-site; NZD 106,000 - 124,000; Full time

Job summary

Auckland Council Libraries publishing programme is seeking an experienced publishing professional for a 13-month fixed-term role commencing in November/December 2026. This 40-hour-per-week position is based at the Central City Library in Auckland.

You will lead planning and delivery of the publishing work programme, manage budgets and supplier relationships, build strong author and partner networks, and drive audience engagement across Tāmaki Makaurau.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in book publishing.
• Strong track record in planning, programme leadership and delivering measurable outcomes.
• Expertise in publishing, copyright, rights management and book production.
• Experience managing budgets, contracts and supplier relationships.
• Strong stakeholder and relationship management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Cultural competence and confidence in engaging with diverse communities, particularly Māori and Pasifika communities.

Responsibilities

• Contributing specialist expertise to the strategic direction of the publishing programme.
• Leading the planning and delivery of the publishing work programme, maintaining an achievable pipeline of publishing projects.
• Managing publishing budgets, contracts and supplier relationships to ensure effective and sustainable programme delivery.
• Leading and coordinating publishing projects.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with authors, publishers, and key stakeholders.
• Overseeing the promotion and audience engagement of published content across Tāmaki Makaurau.
• Providing expert advice on publishing, copyright, rights management and book production standards.
• Providing leadership and support to the Publishing Specialist.

Skills

Publishing expertise

Programme leadership

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Cultural competence

Education

Tertiary qualification in publishing, communications, media, library and information studies, or a related discipline.

Job description

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The Auckland Council Libraries publishing programme develops and publishes books that fill gaps in our collections, share Auckland’s stories and heritage, and reflect the diverse communities of Tāmaki Makaurau. Our small publishing team works with internal, community and publishing partners to develop and publish high-quality books.

This is a 13-month fixed term role commencing in November/ December 2026. It is a 40-hour position, based at the Central City Library.

• Contributing specialist expertise to the strategic direction of the publishing programme
• Leading the planning and delivery of the publishing work programme, maintaining an achievable pipeline of publishing projects
• Managing publishing budgets, contracts and supplier relationships to ensure effective and sustainable programme delivery.
• Leading and coordinating publishing projects
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with authors, publishers, and key stakeholders
• Overseeing the promotion and audience engagement of published content across Tāmaki Makaurau
• Providing expert advice on publishing, copyright, rights management and book production standards
• Providing leadership and support to the Publishing Specialist

We are looking for a person who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience (7+ years) in book publishing
• A strong track record in planning, programme leadership and delivering measurable outcomes
• Expertise in publishing, copyright, rights management and book production
• Experience managing budgets, contracts and supplier relationships
• Strong stakeholder and relationship management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Cultural competence and confidence in engaging with diverse communities, particularly Māori and Pasifika communities
• Relevant tertiary qualification in publishing, communications, media, library and information studies, or a related discipline.

At Auckland Council, you will join a dynamic, supportive environment where your mahi (work) will directly impact the lives of over 1.7 million Aucklanders. We offer flexible working conditions, a focus on well-being, and a culture of continuous improvement.

We are proud to be recognised for our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. We are accredited by GenderTick, a signatory of the Pride Pledge. These commitments reflect our ongoing efforts to create a workplace where all staff feel valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

Together, we can create a Tāmaki Makaurau we can all be proud of.

Additionally, as part of our Auckland Council Group, you will gain access to many benefits and discounts including:

• An opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of Aucklanders and the communities we serve.
• A collaborative and supportive environment where innovation, learning and professional growth are encouraged.
• Opportunities to lead community-focused initiatives, programmes and partnerships that create lasting outcomes.
• Ongoing development opportunities, including strengthening your capability and te ao Māori practice.
• The chance to work with passionate colleagues who are committed to delivering outstanding community experiences across Tāmaki Makaurau.

As part of our organisation, please view a range of our: benefits

Application close date: Thursday 22nd October 2026

Salary: $105,579 - $124,210 dependant on experience

Auckland Council is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and we are committed to providing a working environment that embraces and values diversity and inclusion. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application to assist you through the recruitment process.

Auckland Council is committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. We collect personal information directly from you and, where relevant for the purpose of assessing you for employment, and employing you as part of the transport reform process, from third parties such as referees, previous employers (including Auckland Transport) recruitment agencies, and background checking providers.

By applying for this role, you consent to Council obtaining a reference from your current employer, including information about any active conduct investigations and current performance management processes, if you are the preferred candidate. Reference checks will only be undertaken at the preferred candidate stage. Any non-active performance or conduct matters may also be discussed with referees as part of the reference checking process.

If you do not consent to this information being provided, Council may be unable to properly assess your application and your application will not progress further. If you wish to withhold your consent, or to access or correct your personal information, please contact the Privacy Officer at [e-mail] .