Books Desk Editor – Strategic Leader for Digital Coverage

The New York Times; New York (NY); On-site; USD 200,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Restricted stock

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k) plan

Paid vacation

Paid sick days

Paid parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Professional development

Job summary

The New York Times seeks a visionary Books Editor to lead its coverage of books, overseeing the Books desk and defining editorial strategy across Book Review and related formats. Based in New York, you will guide editors, critics, reporters, and contributors to produce authoritative and engaging book coverage across our website, app, newsletters, audio, video and social platforms.

The ideal candidate brings 15+ years in journalism or cultural criticism, 5+ years in leadership, deep knowledge of

Qualifications

• 15+ years in journalism or cultural criticism.
• 5+ years in a leadership or managerial role within a major media organization.
• Deep knowledge of the publishing industry and contemporary literature.
• Proven experience leading digital transformations and audience engagement.
• Exceptional editing skills and ability to guide writers under deadlines.
• Experience navigating complex, matrixed organizations.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the overarching editorial strategy for books coverage.
• Ensure coverage reflects diverse voices, genres, and perspectives.
• Oversee selection of books for review and maintain The Times as the definitive voice.
• Direct high-profile projects like the "10 Best Books of the Year" and develop new book franchises.
• Cover the publishing industry, from economics to debates in writing and AI.
• Collaborate with product, audio, video, and design teams to expand formats.

Skills

Editorial leadership

Digital transformation

Editorial editing

Cultural criticism

Publishing industry knowledge

Team management

Job description

The New York Times seeks a visionary Books Editor to lead its coverage of books, overseeing the Books desk and defining editorial strategy across Book Review and related formats. Based in New York, you will guide editors, critics, reporters, and contributors to produce authoritative and engaging book coverage across our website, app, newsletters, audio, video and social platforms.

The ideal candidate brings 15+ years in journalism or cultural criticism, 5+ years in leadership, deep knowledge of