Experienced Contracts Assistant for Penguin Publishing Group – Literary Contract Management and Rights Acquisition Specialist

Welcome to Penguin Random House

We are the leading adult and children's publishing house in North America, the United Kingdom, and many other regions around the world. Our vibrant and diverse international community of nearly 300 publishing brands and imprints is committed to quality, excellence in execution, and innovation throughout the entire publishing process. We are now seeking a highly skilled and motivated Contracts Assistant to join our Penguin Publishing Group contracts team, working closely with our imprints, including Penguin, Penguin Press, Riverhead, and Viking.

About the Role

The Contracts Assistant is an integral part of the drafting, negotiating, and complete execution of contracts while partnering with many different areas of the company. As a Contracts Assistant, you will work closely with the Contracts Director and liaise with editorial, legal, royalties & accounting, and the various contracts teams, as well as partnering closely with agents, authors, and publishing entities to finalize the acquisition of rights for Penguin. This position requires a strong and diverse skillset in relevant areas to drive success, including excellent communication and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft and negotiate author and writer-for-hire contracts, contract amendments, and handle rights reversions for the Ballantine Bantam Dell, One World, Harmony Rodale, and Roc Lit 101 imprints
• Manage contracts inquiries from other departments such as Editorial, Subsidiary Rights, and Royalties
• Route contracts and amendments to appropriate parties for signature
• Conduct contract research and analyze data to inform contract decisions
• Scan files and perform database maintenance to ensure accurate and up-to-date records
• Liaise with Royalties to ensure data for payments or changes to payment due dates is accurate
• Coordinate with team and internal resources to optimize the efficiency of processes and workflow
• Support additional project work for the group as needed, including special projects and initiatives

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, meticulous self-starter who can manage a diverse set of responsibilities efficiently and effectively. You should be comfortable asking for help when needed and have a proactive and independent approach to work, including a strong ability to problem-solve autonomously. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to apply organizational methods and strategies to meet deadlines and manage a busy inbox.

Essential Qualifications

• A self-starter with impeccable attention to detail when drafting and reviewing contracts
• A proactive and independent approach to work, including a strong ability to problem-solve autonomously
• Able to apply organizational methods and strategies to meet deadlines and manage a busy inbox on Outlook
• Timely follow-up skills with the contracts team, authors, agents, and other departments
• A curious mind that enjoys research projects and is able to conduct contract research and analyze data
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Word, Adobe (PDF), and Excel, and an avid interest and ability to learn new applications

Preferred Qualifications

• A history or interest in journalism, communications, literature, or a related publishing field
• Previous experience in contract management or a related field
• Knowledge of publishing industry standards and practices
• Familiarity with contract management software and databases

What We Offer

We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and generous paid time off. As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for our annual profit award or bonus, subject to company results. We also offer a range of other benefits, including a student loan repayment program, educational assistance, and commuter benefits.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Our company culture is built on a foundation of respect, inclusivity, and diversity. We value the array of talents and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings and are committed to creating an environment where all employees feel welcome and supported. Our offices are located in New York, NY, and we offer a flexible, hybrid remote arrangement for this position.

Career Growth Opportunities

As a Contracts Assistant, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills and expertise in contract management and rights acquisition. You will work closely with experienced professionals in the industry and have the chance to learn from them. We offer training and development programs to help you advance in your career, and there are opportunities for advancement within the company.

Learning and Development

We are committed to helping our employees develop their skills and expertise. We offer a range of training and development programs, including workshops, webinars, and online courses. You will also have the opportunity to attend industry events and conferences, and to participate in our mentorship program.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please submit your application, including your cover letter and resume, through our ATS system by October 16, 2023. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how you can contribute to our team.

Conclusion

Join our team as a Contracts Assistant and be a part of a dynamic and innovative company that is shaping the future of publishing. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth and development. If you are a motivated and detail-oriented individual with a passion for contract management and rights acquisition, we encourage you to apply for this exciting role.