About the job
Ascension Publishing Group seeks a Publishing Product Manager to join the Books team. This remote position, open to candidates based in the United States, centers on guiding multiple book titles within the Consumer Products division. The Publishing Product Manager supports promising book ideas from early development through launch, working closely with authors and senior leadership at each stage.
Role overview
This role manages the full lifecycle of new book products. Responsibilities include refining initial concepts, validating ideas with real reader feedback, and ensuring each project aligns with its intended audience and commercial goals. The Publishing Product Manager partners with authors as their main creative collaborator, while also coordinating with marketing, media, and production teams to bring titles to market.
What you will do
- Join early-stage discussions with leadership and authors to turn ideas into clear product concepts, defining target audiences and commercial rationale.
- Shape the vision, positioning, and content direction for new books from concept through launch.
- Validate concepts using interviews, surveys, and community research, refining or challenging assumptions as needed.
- Act as the main creative partner for authors, supporting them throughout the publishing process.
- Identify and build relationships with potential authors whose expertise aligns with Ascension's product strategy.
- Oversee manuscripts, titles, covers, and supporting materials to ensure they remain true to the original concept, addressing misalignments promptly.
- Develop multi-year product plans focused on market segments, product line growth, and profitability.
- Set product requirements and specifications, communicating vision and objectives to internal teams.
- Collaborate with the Associate Marketing Manager on go-to-market strategies, campaign planning, and launch coordination.
- Determine pricing based on research, production costs, and sales projections.
- Establish metrics to track product success and identify opportunities for improvement or follow-up projects.
- Lead planning meetings and provide direction on product strategy.
Requirements
- Strong editorial judgment and creativity.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and keep them on track.
- Experience supporting creative teams and collaborating with senior leadership.
- Comfort working remotely within the United States.
