What is the Job?

This exciting role is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking a career in international academic publishing. The position of Key Account Sales Executive centers on managing commercial sales relationships across the Europe region for Bristol University Press (BUP), a leading academic publisher specializing in social science books and journals. As a Key Account Sales Executive, you will oversee relationships with sales agents and third-party distributors to grow print and eBook revenues while also diving into the Rights and Translations aspects of publishing by promoting BUP’s portfolio to global rights agencies.

You’ll collaborate closely with the marketing team to organize events, create region-targeted promotional materials, and contribute to marketing strategies. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, understands international sales dynamics, and enjoys building and maintaining professional relationships across borders. If you’re passionate about international education and academic publishing with a desire to directly contribute to BUP’s mission-driven approach, this could be your next career step.

The job also provides a unique chance to be part of a publisher recognized for its growth and excellence, having been awarded the 2024 Independent Professional and Academic Publisher of the Year. While a fixed-term contract of 13 months, this opportunity allows the successful candidate to make a real impact and bring innovative ideas to the table.

As an international publisher, BUP’s role in advancing social sciences is deeply entrenched in the global education landscape. It’s not just about selling books and eBooks; it’s about fostering knowledge dissemination and building meaningful connections for academic progress worldwide.

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Applying with an International Education Perspective

If you’re considering applying for this position, here is some valuable advice:

1. Highlight Your International Sales Skills

Emphasize previous experience in a publishing or sales role that involved working with international clients or distributors. Demonstrating your ability to navigate cultural differences, manage cross-border relationships, and tailor strategies to diverse market needs is critical. Provide specific examples of how you’ve successfully negotiated deals, closed sales opportunities, or contributed to expanding international business.

1. Showcase Your Knowledge of Academic Publishing

Academic publishing is specialized and mission-driven. Highlight any exposure you’ve had to academic or educational content, whether in sales, marketing, or production roles. Understanding the ethos behind Bristol University Press’s focus on social sciences, equity, and impactful research can set you apart from other candidates.

1. Fluency in Regional Knowledge

Since the role focuses on Europe, showcase familiarity with key European markets for academic publishing. If you’ve worked in territories such as the UK, Germany, France, Spain, or other countries within the region, mention your ability to cater to varying demands and trends across these cultures and regions.

1. Technical Competency is Key

Evidence of proficiency in Salesforce and MS Office tools like Excel is essential for this role. If you’re adept at working with data, analyzing trends, and managing reports, ensure that you highlight these qualities in your CV or cover letter. Provide any examples of success using CRM systems or data-driven sales strategies.

1. Adaptability and Innovation

Academic publishing is a rapidly evolving field, especially with the rise of digital content and eBooks. Highlight your adaptability to new technologies and trends in publishing. If you’ve contributed to innovative campaigns, digital marketing strategies, or e-commerce solutions, be sure to emphasize them.

1. Understanding of Rights and Translations

This role dives into rights management-an area where your ability to navigate contracts, understand copyright issues, and promote titles for translation can add significant value. Demonstrate your understanding of international rights agencies or similar experience you’ve had in a related role.

1. Cultural Competence and Communication Skills

You’ll be working with a diverse, international customer base, so strong interpersonal skills are a must. Show that you can effectively communicate across cultures, maintain relationships with distributed teams, and deliver persuasive presentations tailored to different audiences.

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How to Make Your Application Stand Out

• Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Demonstrate how your skills, knowledge, and qualifications align perfectly with the requirements of this role. Be concise yet impactful in showcasing measurable achievements in sales, publishing, or academic settings.

• Research BUP Thoroughly: Familiarize yourself with Bristol University Press’s mission, values, and recently launched strategy surrounding social sciences. Referencing this strategy (available on their website) in your application demonstrates genuine interest in their vision.

• Include International Examples: If you have worked in multicultural or multilingual settings, make that a focal point. This aligns perfectly with the global nature of the role.

• Reach Out for Informal Queries: Contact Julie Atkins (julie.atkins@bristol.ac.uk) to ask insightful questions about the role before applying. This not only clarifies expectations but also shows enthusiasm and proactivity.

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Why Choose Bristol University Press?

This is more than just a sales job; it’s a chance to contribute meaningfully to global education and knowledge dissemination. BUP is a mission-led publisher deeply rooted in advancing social sciences research and was recognized as an Independent Professional and Academic Publisher of the Year. This is your opportunity to join a forward-thinking organization during a transformative time and grow professionally while making a tangible impact across the European academic landscape