Director

The University of Virginia Press (UVaP) seeks its next director to oversee the scholarly integrity of its books, monographs, and digital imprint; public engagement on critical ideas and issues; and daily operations of a sustainable business model. The incoming director will have the opportunity to shape the direction of UVaP by both acquiring and approving all projects for publication, overseeing the financial health of the press, and pursuing opportunities that support both the mission of UVA Press, as well as the greater University.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and advance the mission of the press, and its capacity to innovate, in the highly evolving scholarly publishing landscape.
• Oversee changing platforms for knowledge dissemination, creative and inclusive acquisition strategies, and sustainable financial models that support access, equity, and diversity.
• Manage all UVA Press operations, including acquisitions, staff hiring, sales and marketing, editorial, digital imprint, and strategic budgeting and operations to ensure the scholarly integrity, public engagement, and financial health and sustainability of the press.
• Enhance the public profile of the press through the initiation and development of partnerships, collaborations, and social and print media.
• Represent the University in all matters pertaining to UVA Press both internally and externally as the publisher.
• Cultivate relationships and new partnerships with UVA faculty and staff, and enhance the profile of the press at UVA.
• Pursue collaborative opportunities with external partners, including regional and national organizations.
• Oversee acquisitions policy and functions, including final recommendations of all proposed titles sent to the editorial board for review.
• Work directly with the editorial board and staff on final project decisions that advance the press’ mission.
• Ensure the maintenance and enhancement of the physical plant, as well as implement the technology needed to support a scholarly press in the 21st century.

Candidate Profile

We seek a dynamic candidate with a demonstrated record of creative, inspiring, and accomplished leadership in complex environments; someone with exceptional integrity who possesses the highest level of commitment to advancing organizational priorities; and whose previous experience is consistent with the University’s commitment to be both great and good. Although the University will consider a range of profiles, expressions of interest are sought from candidates possessing the following: 

Desired Qualifications

• A strong track record of leadership experience in a publishing setting
• Ability to build relationships with faculty, scholars, peer reviewers, and authors
• Commitment to and passion for advancing knowledge, and an understanding of the distinctive role of university presses in knowledge production
• Deep knowledge of both the scholarly publishing landscape and the trade publishing landscape
• Ability to foster a diverse and inclusive working environment
• Experience building partnerships, both internally and externally
• Experience leading digital publishing initiatives
• Extensive budget management, forecasting, and strategic planning experience
• A track record in fundraising, both through grants and private gifts and donations
• A track record of data-driven decision making

Apply or Nominate

UVA Executive Search Group, an internal search firm in the Office of the President, is assisting in the recruitment of the next Director, UVA Press. 

Confidential inquiries and nominations should be directed to Ashley Milligan, Search Consultant, at anm4f@virginia.edu.  

To apply, submit a cover letter and resume via Workday. The search will be carried out with full confidentiality. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Education: Bachelor's degree
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

COVID Vaccination Requirement and Guidelines

Please visit the UVA COVID-19 Job Requirements and Guidelines webpage prior to applying for current information regarding vaccination requirements and guidelines for employment at UVA.

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.