Book Sales and Distribution Lead

Position Overview

The Book Sales & Distribution Lead plays a critical role in maximizing the commercial success of our authors' books across print, ebook, audiobook, retail, wholesale, institutional, and international channels. Serving as the primary internal expert on book sales, distribution, inventory, and metadata strategy, this individual will guide authors through key publishing decisions while ensuring seamless execution across the publishing lifecycle.

This highly detail-oriented, client-facing role requires exceptional organization, analytical thinking, and communication skills. The ideal candidate thrives at the intersection of strategy and execution, balancing author support, sales analysis, distribution partner management, and operational oversight. They possess a strong understanding of the publishing ecosystem, a commitment to delivering an exceptional member experience, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

The Book Sales & Distribution Lead will oversee five interconnected areas: Product Sales (print, ebook, and audiobook), Inventory Management, Metadata Management, Sales Reporting & Strategy, and Distribution Partner Management. Working closely with the SVP of Publishing, President of Advantage, Publishing Operations team, Production team, and Book Promotions team, this individual will develop and execute distribution strategies that maximize reach, discoverability, and sales performance for our titles worldwide.

This role owns the day-to-day relationships with our key distribution and rights partners, including Simon & Schuster, ACX, and DropCap, ensuring all distribution commitments are fulfilled accurately and on schedule. The Book Sales & Distribution Lead will also monitor sales performance, analyze trends, manage inventory and reprint decisions, oversee metadata accuracy, support go-to-market initiatives, and identify opportunities to expand sales channels and distribution partnerships.

Success in this role requires a combination of strategic thinking, operational excellence, strong relationship management skills, and an unwavering attention to detail. The Book Sales & Distribution Lead serves as a trusted advisor to authors and a key contributor to the commercial success of Advantage titles around the world.

Expected Outcomes

• Drive sustained growth in book sales across print, ebook, audiobook, retail, wholesale, institutional, and international channels, achieving annual sales growth of 30% or more.
• Maintain an exceptional member experience, achieving and sustaining a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 60 or higher for book sales and distribution services.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to develop, implement, and optimize global distribution strategies that expand market reach, improve operational efficiency, and maximize sales opportunities.
• Effectively manage relationships with distribution and rights partners to ensure seamless execution, strong performance, and alignment with company objectives.
• Ensure accurate inventory forecasting and management, minimizing stockouts and excess inventory while supporting sales growth and profitability.
• Maintain accurate, optimized metadata across all sales channels to maximize discoverability, retailer performance, and consumer accessibility.
• Deliver timely, accurate sales reporting and actionable insights that support strategic decision-making and business growth.
• Successfully execute distribution, reprint, and inventory management initiatives while maintaining high standards of quality, efficiency, and member satisfaction.

Key Competencies

• Attention to Detail & Organization: Maintains a high level of accuracy and organization while managing multiple priorities, ensuring critical details are not overlooked and projects remain on track.
• Communication & Customer Service: Communicates clearly, professionally, and concisely in both verbal and written formats. Delivers a best-in-class experience for authors, clients, and internal stakeholders through responsiveness, professionalism, and a solutions-oriented approach.
• Flexibility & Adaptability: Thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and adjusts quickly to changing priorities, timelines, and client needs.
• Calm Under Pressure: Maintains composure, professionalism, and sound judgment when managing competing demands, tight deadlines, and time-sensitive situations.
• Problem-Solving Mindset: Approaches challenges proactively, identifies effective solutions, and adapts strategies to meet unique client and project needs.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Builds strong working relationships, collaborates effectively across teams, and proactively supports colleagues to achieve shared goals.

Skills and Experience

Required

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in book publishing, content distribution, book retailing, or a related publishing environment.
• Strong knowledge of book sales and distribution channels, including retail, wholesale, institutional, ebook, audiobook
• Understanding of publishing industry best practices, distribution agreements, retailer requirements, and standard sales terms.
• Demonstrated success in sales, negotiation, relationship management, and contract administration.
• Bachelor's degree.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to make data-driven recommendations.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Preferred

• Strong knowledge of book distribution in international markets.
• Knowledge of book manufacturing processes, including printing, paper selection, binding options, inventory management, and physical product packaging. Experience working directly with printers is preferred.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, remote position. To support collaboration and responsiveness during standard business hours, preference will be given to candidates residing in the Eastern or Central Time Zones. Candidates should be available to work primarily within an Eastern Time (ET) schedule.

Our headquarters is located in Charleston. While this role is primarily remote, occasional travel to Charleston will be required for onboarding, team meetings, training, and company events.

Benefits
Advantage offers a comprehensive benefits package with a focus on career development and advancement. 

• Generous Vacation/PTO policies.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision plans (eligibility begins the first of the month after 30 days).
• A 401(k) plan with company contributions.
• Additional benefits available after 90 days of employment to support your well-being and professional development.

Advantage | The Authority Company is known for its exceptional workplace culture and values the dedication and hard work of its team members. We create an environment where employees can build rewarding, fulfilling careers.