Nonfiction Editorial Director: Shape Bestselling Voices

Simon & Schuster, Inc.; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Simon & Schuster's Atria Books unit seeks an Editorial Director of Nonfiction to lead acquisitions, list development, and publishing strategy with editorial judgment and strong author relationships.

The role requires identifying emerging voices across narrative nonfiction, memoir, history, and current affairs, building a vibrant, commercially successful list, and guiding authors from concept to publication.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in trade nonfiction publishing (typically 8+ years).
• Proven track record of publishing commercially successful nonfiction.
• Established relationships with literary agents and authors.
• Exceptional developmental editing skills and strong editorial vision.
• Deep understanding of nonfiction audiences and reader discovery.
• Strong communication, presentation, and organizational abilities.

Responsibilities

• Acquire a strong nonfiction list aligned with Atria’s identity and goals.
• Identify and cultivate writers, journalists, and emerging voices.
• Develop original book concepts and secure author partnerships.
• Protect and grow author relationships and manage across teams.
• Present acquisitions with market insight, titles, and financials.
• Negotiate acquisitions in collaboration with imprint leadership.

Skills

Editorial judgment

Author relationships

Agent relationships

Emerging voices

Negotiation

Leadership

Job description

Simon & Schuster's Atria Books unit seeks an Editorial Director of Nonfiction to lead acquisitions, list development, and publishing strategy with editorial judgment and strong author relationships.

The role requires identifying emerging voices across narrative nonfiction, memoir, history, and current affairs, building a vibrant, commercially successful list, and guiding authors from concept to publication.