Publicist-University Press (Hybrid/Remote)

University Press

Sponsorship for Work authorization is not available for this position.

Job Summary

Duties & Responsibilities

• Publicity and communication
  1. Create comprehensive and successful publicity plans for 80 or more titles each year.
  2. Oversee all review media mailings; develop creative, thorough, and targeted mailing lists for bound proof and finished books.
  3. Write press releases, develop media kits, and research media contacts.
  4. Develop strong relationships with print and electronic media; meet and communicate with book review editors and radio/TV producers regularly to present new titles; special focus on metropolitan media in: Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C.
  5. Update and maintain in-house publicity database (Biblio) and research media contacts via online guide (Muck Rack).
  6. Arrange book signings and launch parties at bookstores, libraries, museums, historical societies, book festivals, and academic conferences.
  7. Oversee the production of video book trailers.
  8. Arrange regional, national, and international radio/TV appearances.
  9. Create and coordinate virtual author events.
• Administrative
  1. Attend editorial and marketing meetings and provide analyses of publicity prospects for new titles.
  2. Maintain relationships with other departments at UI (Urbana, Chicago, and Springfield campuses), including the office of the alumni relations, the office of Public Affairs, and the office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs.
  3. Communicate publicity information to authors, editors, and UIP marketing staff.
  4. Manage publicity budget and schedules.
  5. Manage author relationships.
  6. Participate in the professional activities of the Association of American University Presses.
  7. Serve on the Crisis Communication Committee.
• Manager Supervision
  1. Responsible for overseeing staff (Marketing Assistant).
  2. Supervise student workers, student interns, and social media interns.
• Travel
  1. Attend annual Press retreat.
  2. Attend selected academic and trade conferences (including weekend travel).
  3. Meet with New York and Chicago media as appropriate.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in marketing, business administration, communications, public relations, or a closely related field. One (1) year (12 months) of professional work experience in marketing, public relations, communications, brand management, or a related professional area. Based on position requirements, additional education, training, and/or work experience in the area of specialization inherent to the position, may be required. Note: Master's Degree in an area consistent with the duties of the position may be substituted for one (1) year (12 months) of work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Experience:
1. 1-3 years of experience in media relations or publishing.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• 1. Strong writing, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• 2. Strong verbal communication skills.
• 3. Knowledge of databases and the web.
• 4. Ability to travel out of state (by airplane).

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5007 - Publicity-Promotions Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible. The budgeted salary range for the position is $48,000 to $58,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

System Office jobs such as this one are not eligible for the Referral Program.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on June 30, 2025. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Amanda at abbuo2@uillinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois offers a very competitive benefits portfolio, depending on the position. Click for a complete list of Employee Benefits.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1031215
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu