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• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Penn State University Press, a distinguished leader in academic publishing, seeks a results-oriented Sales Specialist to join our dynamic team in University Park, Pennsylvania. This pivotal role focuses on driving revenue, expanding market reach, and fostering strong relationships with customers and partners. Reporting to the Sales & Marketing Director, the Sales Specialist will play an integral role in the Press’s commitment to delivering groundbreaking scholarship to global audiences.

About Penn State University Press

PSU Press is renowned for publishing groundbreaking scholarship across its three imprints:

• Penn State University Press: scholarship in the arts and humanities and regional trade titles.

• Eisenbrauns: specialist publications in biblical studies, ancient Near Eastern studies, archaeology, ancient languages, and Islamic studies.

• Graphic Mundi: trade graphic novels for general readers on important topics.

The Press combines tradition and innovation, producing scholarly and trade books that inspire, educate, and engage global audiences.

Position Overview

The Sales Specialist will develop and implement strategic sales initiatives, optimize distribution channels, and maximize revenue growth across all publishing imprints. Collaborating closely with the Sales & Marketing Director, the Sales Specialist will ensure that sales strategies align with broader organizational goals while directly managing customer accounts, partnerships, and promotional campaigns. This position combines strategic planning with hands-on execution and is ideal for a motivated professional eager to make an impact.

Key Responsibilities

1. Sales Strategy & Execution:

• Develop and execute annual sales plans to achieve and exceed revenue goals.

• Identify new market opportunities and develop targeted strategies for growth across domestic and international markets.

• Manage direct and wholesale accounts, including bookstores, online retailers, libraries, and academic institutions.

2. Sales Team Management:

• Lead and manage external sales representatives, both domestically and internationally.

• Pitch lead titles and lists to buyers and sales representatives on a rolling basis.

• Provide guidance, offer support, and conduct reviews to ensure high performance across all sales teams.

• Establish clear sales objectives and regularly review performance metrics to dr