Library Publishing Lead: Strategy, Budgets & Partnerships

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

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.