Job Description

The full salary range for this position is $63,000 to $85,200 per year.

Human Kinetics is headquartered in Champaign, IL. This position is on-site for the first 3 months. Hybrid work arrangements are possible after this 3 month period. 

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Applicants are not obligated to disclose expunged juvenile records of adjudication, arrest, or conviction as part of the application process.

*Learn more about our perks and benefits here:  (

Human Kinetics is committed to building a more diverse workforce. We welcome BIPOC candidates and others who identify with underrepresented groups to apply.

Human Kinetics is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, Human Kinetics will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact HR at 217-403-7609.

Human Kinetics Compensation & Benefits Information

Our compensation philosophy is to value the contributions of all HK employees and to reward exceptional performance exceptionally. To do that, we provide a standard increase to all HK staff, and we award merit increases and bonuses to people who make extraordinary contributions to the work we do.

Job Summary:

Human Kinetics is seeking a proven Acquisitions Editor to shape and expand our imprint, Lotus Books. In this highly impactful role, you will work closely with the Division Director to oversee a growing line up of resources in the areas of health, fitness, wellness, anatomy, and physical and manual therapy.

The Acquisitions Editor will be directly responsible for conceptualizing, acquiring, contracting, and guiding the development of 16-20 new titles annually. You will also review the backlist to identify opportunities for repurposing content. Demonstrated acquisitions success and a strong ability to visualize, assess, organize, and present information effectively for our target audience are a must.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Conceptualize, acquire, contract, and develop 16-20 new Lotus Books titles each year.
• Establish and maintain a vast and respected network of subject matter experts within primary subject areas.
• Identify, screen, and recruit authors for envisioned projects.
• Assess and define the needs of proposed projects, including photos, illustrations, design, and other elements.
• Complete and present internal analysis of strengths, weaknesses, target market(s), and profitability for proposed acquisitions.
• Provide support and feedback to authors, including reviewing, recommending, and as needed, implementing revisions to the manuscript.
• Prepare manuscripts and hand off to the Publications Service Manager (PSM), serving as the primary contact for authors, internal staff, and, as needed, freelancers throughout the publication stages.
• Evaluate the performance of backlist titles and implement strategies to enhance their visibility and sales.
• Contribute to the packaging of products, including consultation with the Division Director on title, cover and interior design, and marketing copy and materials.
• Collaborate with existing publishing partners to coordinate reprints, corrections, updates, and new editions of active titles.
• Serve as liaison to all internal business units including Product Development, Sales and Marketing, Fulfillment, and International Development on all matters related to Lotus Books
• Develop familiarity with Lotus Books, including photo, art, and video assets. Activity and strategically seek out opportunities to repurpose content.

Skills and qualifications:

• Undergraduate degree in a publishing-related discipline or one or more of Lotus Books' subject areas, such as fitness, health, anatomy, physical (or complementary) therapy.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in publishing AND 3+ years of demonstrated success as an acquisitions editor, or equivalent position, for a trade or professional publisher.
• Excellent analytical, writing, editing, communication, and project management skills.
• Strong diplomacy skills, with experience negotiating, drafting, and reviewing contracts highly preferred.
• Attention to detail and excellent follow through on tasks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs.
• Must hold a valid US driver's license.

Preferred Skills and qualifications:

• Graduate degree in a publishing-related discipline or one or more of Lotus Books' subject areas, such as fitness, health, anatomy, physical (or complementary) therapy.
• 4+ years of demonstrated success as acquisitions editor, or equivalent position, in professional or trade book publishing.

Required Competencies:

Integrity

Effort

Resourcefulness

Respect

Teamwork

Stewardship

Accountability

Attention to detail

Computer literacy

Conceptual thinking

Customer focus

Data gathering and analysis

Financial awareness

Initiative

Interpersonal awareness

Negotiating

Oral communication

Organizational awareness

Planning and organizing

Quality orientation

Results orientation

Self-confidence

Sociability and networking

Strategic thinking

Technical expertise and usage

Use of functional expertise

Written communication

Preferred Competencies:

Adaptability

Continuous learning

External strategic thinking

Innovation orientation

Persuasiveness

Job Demands:

Office Equipment:  Frequent phone, mobile device, and computer use. Occasional use of a copier.

Mental Demands:  Frequent problem-solving, organization, reading, and writing skill use. Occasional need to make decisions and interpret data.

Working Conditions:  Indoor, office environment.

Physical Demands:  Frequent sitting and walking. Occasional standing, lifting (up to 20 lbs), carrying, and driving. 

Other Duties:  Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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