Textbook Head  

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