University Press Sales Specialist

Penn State University; University Park (AL); Hybrid; USD 56,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established academic publishing institution is seeking a motivated Sales Specialist to drive revenue and expand market reach. This pivotal role involves developing strategic sales initiatives, managing customer accounts, and collaborating closely with the Sales & Marketing Director. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, possess strong analytical and communication skills, and be eager to contribute to a collaborative team culture. Join a passionate team dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation in the dynamic world of academic publishing. This role offers professional growth and the chance to shape the sales strategy of a respected institution.

Benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Flexible work options

Attendance at trade shows and conferences

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor's degree required with three years of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to manage accounts and drive revenue growth.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual sales plans to achieve revenue goals.
• Manage direct and wholesale accounts, including bookstores and libraries.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with customers and distributors.

Skills

Sales Strategy Development

Relationship Management

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Negotiation Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business or Marketing

Advanced Professional or Senior Professional experience

Tools

Database Systems

Sales Tools

Job description

University Press Sales Specialist page is loaded

University Press Sales Specialist

Apply remote type Hybrid locations Penn State University Park time type Full time posted on Posted Yesterday job requisition id REQ_0000064465

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Penn State University Press, a distinguished leader in academic publishing, seeks a results-oriented Sales Specialist to join our dynamic team in University Park, Pennsylvania. This pivotal role focuses on driving revenue, expanding market reach, and fostering strong relationships with customers and partners. Reporting to the Sales & Marketing Director, the Sales Specialist will play an integral role in the Press’s commitment to delivering groundbreaking scholarship to global audiences.

Position Overview

The Sales Specialist will develop and implement strategic sales initiatives, optimize distribution channels, and maximize revenue growth across all publishing imprints. Collaborating closely with the Sales & Marketing Director, the Sales Specialist will ensure that sales strategies align with broader organizational goals while directly managing customer accounts, partnerships, and promotional campaigns. This position combines strategic planning with hands-on execution and is ideal for a motivated professional eager to make an impact.

Key Responsibilities

1. Sales Strategy & Execution:
   • Develop and execute annual sales plans to achieve and exceed revenue goals.
   • Identify new market opportunities and develop targeted strategies for growth across domestic and international markets.
   • Manage direct and wholesale accounts, including bookstores, online retailers, libraries, and academic institutions.
2. Sales Team Management:
   • Lead and manage external sales representatives, both domestically and internationally.
   • Pitch lead titles and lists to buyers and sales representatives on a rolling basis.
   • Provide guidance, offer support, and conduct reviews to ensure high performance across all sales teams.
   • Establish clear sales objectives and regularly review performance metrics to drive success.
3. Relationship Management:
   • Build and nurture strong relationships with customers, distributors, and sales agents to optimize sales performance.
   • Act as the primary liaison for major accounts, ensuring top-tier service and responsiveness.
   • Represent the Press at industry events, exhibits, and academic conferences.
4. Data-Driven Sales Strategy & Forecasting:
   • Develop book pricing strategies in collaboration with the Sales & Marketing Director and other stakeholders at the Press based on sales data and market trends.
   • Produce detailed sales forecasts and reports for the Sales & Marketing Director.
   • Collaborate with the marketing team to integrate sales data into promotional strategies.
5. Inventory & Distribution Oversight:
   • Coordinate with the distribution team to ensure efficient inventory management and fulfillment processes.
   • Monitor stock levels and initiate reprints or print-on-demand orders as needed.
6. Collaboration & Cross-Functional Support:
   • Work closely with the marketing and acquisitions teams to align sales efforts with new book launches and promotional campaigns.
   • Provide feedback on product development, including pricing, market positioning, and distribution channels.

Who We Seek

We seek a proactive and adaptable sales professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is a relationship builder, a strategic thinker, and an enthusiastic contributor to a collaborative team culture.

Education and Experience

This position will be filled at the level of Advanced Professional or Senior Professional, depending on the final applicant’s experience and education. The Advanced Professional level requires a minimum of a Bachelor's degree (business, marketing, or a related field preferred) and three years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Additional education and/or experience are required for higher-level positions.

Additional Qualifications:

• Proven ability to manage accounts, negotiate contracts, and drive revenue growth.
• Outstanding analytical skills with proficiency in sales forecasting and data interpretation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer-focused mindset.
• Familiarity with distribution and inventory management in the publishing industry.
• Technological proficiency, including familiarity with database systems and sales tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in university press or scholarly publishing.
• Sales experience in academic or trade publishing.
• Knowledge of trends in academic and trade markets, including open access and digital formats.
• Familiarity with metadata best practices and industry standards.

Additional Details

• Occasional travel, including attendance at trade shows and conferences, will be required.
• This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
• This position is based at Penn State’s University Park campus but has the potential to be performed as a hybrid of remote and onsite work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Join Our Team

At Penn State University Press, you’ll find a passionate team dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering innovation. This role offers:

• The opportunity to shape the sales strategy of a respected institution.
• A collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.
• Professional growth and development within the dynamic world of academic publishing.

Join us in the vigorous pursuit of excellence in publishing. Apply now to become a part of our innovative team!

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is: $56,200.00 - $89,600.00

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex