Textbook Head

Summary of Work Activities and Responsibilities:

The Textbook Head oversees the textbook production, coordinates with various University units to develop the Press’s textbook list, and collaborates closely with the Marketing and Business and Operations Teams to handle existing textbooks accounts. This position is also responsible for overseeing the production of special projects under the Magis imprint.

Main Duties and Responsibilities
I. Textbook Operations Management

• Oversees the publication of BlueBooks, the University Press’s textbook line

• Serves as the primary contact for receiving and acknowledging textbook manuscripts submitted to the University Press, and ensures the proper safekeeping of both digital files and hard copies

• Oversees the processing of requests for the acceptance and distribution of readers’ fees

• Oversees the editorial process, ensuring that standards, timelines, and budgetary requirements are met

• Assigns manuscripts to reviewers, cover artists, indexers, and editors, and monitors their outputs to ensure the high quality of books for publication

• Supervises the production process to ensure that targets are met

• Works with the Marketing Section in determining the profile and preference of the target market for possible new publication, and in discussing the creation and promotion of textbooks

• Collaborates with authors to conceptualize the design direction of publications, and coordinates with external contractors for implementation

• Liaises and negotiates with authors and external contractors on behalf of the University Press on production schedules, contractual terms, publication requirements, etc.

• Conducts regular textbook analysis and studies trends in textbook development

II. Production and Special Projects Management

• Studies trends and best practices in textbook production in alignment with international standards

• Reviews textbook projects to ensure that content aligns with relevant curricula

• Oversees the editing, design, layout, blue printing, and conducts the final review of manuscripts for publication to ensure compliance with quality standards and timelines

• Reviews and approves the final design and layout of books, in consultation with authors and content owners, prior to production

• Collaborates with printing companies and ensures adherence to quality standards, schedules, and budgetary requirements

• Prepares and facilitates the drafting of textbook contracts with authors and other involved parties, in consultation with ULCO

III. Relationship Management

• Builds and manages relationships with the other University offices to promote textbook development and provide guidance and support to Ateneo academic units in creating textbooks.

• Oversees relationships with textbook authors and ensures effective collaboration and communication.

• Manages relationships with DepEd and CHED, fostering and ensuring alignment with educational policies and standards.

IV. Section Management and Development

• Keeps track of trends, updates and developments that affect the University as a research institution, including the textbook requirements.

• Partners with Ateneo academic units in understanding and addressing their textbook needs, collaborating with them in coming up with proactive solutions that meet present and long-term needs, and monitors progress of project plans and deliverables.

• Sets the direction of the Textbook Section, and determines its operational goals in alignment with the goals of the University Press

• Oversees the development of policies in the Section, and provides inputs for the development of general University Press policies

• Prepares and monitors the Section’s budget and expenditures, and recommends cost effective solutions

• Manages the performance of employees in the Section by setting standards/targets, monitoring and evaluating performance, and providing development opportunities

• Recruits, builds, manages, and mentors staff that will form part of the Section

V. Performs other work-related tasks as may be required by the immediate supervisor and authorized representative

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Product Knowledge: Ability to effectively describe products to target consumers

• Industry Knowledge: Knowledge of the book publishing and production industry, trends, and practices

• Textbook Production: Knowledge of the regulatory requirements and industry standards surrounding publication and production of textbooks

• Planning: Ability to effectively forecast and map out intended outcomes, according to importance and urgency

• Monitoring: Ability to assess performance of self, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

• Project Management: Ability to utilize established principles, procedures and policies to guide a project from conception through completion. Ability to set clear goals, formulates plans and strategies, budget setting, logistical preparations, and program evaluation.

• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

• Coordination Skills: Ability to proactively coordinate, mediate, and manage actions in relation to others

• Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

• Data Analysis: Ability to organize, analyze, and interpret data, including synthesizing data into manageable information, and providing business insights

• Leadership Skills: Ability to guide others toward the achievement of goals

• Decision Making: Ability to make informed decisions based on relevant information and data, taking into consideration multiple viewpoints

• Organizational Skills: Ability to use one’s time and resources efficiently and effectively

• People Management: Ability to supervise employees, including performance management and development

• Technological Savvy: Ability to utilize information technology and computer and internet systems to accomplish tasks; Comfortable with exploring new technologies

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree

• At least 5 years of relevant work experience

• At least 3 years of supervisory experience