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Sr Manager, Contracts (NYC Hybrid)

HarperCollins Publishers

OtherFull Time$100k - $110k
Location
New York, NY (Hybrid)
Posted
September 23, 2026

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Job Description

Role overview

HarperCollins Publishers is seeking a Senior Contracts Manager to join its fast-paced and dynamic Contracts Department. This position manages contracts and amendments for imprints within the Children’s and Trade publishing groups, with a primary focus on inbound brand and content licensing agreements with intellectual property owners, including corporate brands and consumer-product licensors.

This position may be based in New York City on a hybrid schedule, or performed remotely from an approved location. Occasional travel or in-office attendance may be required based on business needs.

Responsibilities

  • Independently manages inbound brand and content licensing agreements from request through execution, including drafting, negotiating, and finalizing contracts and amendments within established guidelines.
  • Independently prepares, drafts, negotiates, and finalizes other publishing agreements and amendments, which may include author, illustrator, contributor, and related agreements.
  • Reviews contract requests submitted by Editorial for completeness, accuracy, appropriate approvals, and alignment with agreed business terms.
  • Partners with Editorial, Royalties, Publishing Operations, Finance, and Legal to support timely contract execution and effective administration.
  • Reviews and communicates key business and legal terms, including advances, royalties, approvals, territories, formats, exclusivity, term, renewal, and termination rights.
  • Identifies and escalates material legal, financial, or business risks to department leadership or Legal, as appropriate.
  • Tracks contract status, approvals, obligations, and key deadlines, and maintains accurate records in contract-management systems.
  • Interprets contract terms and provides clear guidance to internal stakeholders and third parties regarding rights, obligations, approvals, and related requirements.
  • Advises on author estate matters as required.
  • Supports contract templates, workflow improvements, special projects, and other responsibilities aligned with the needs of the Contracts Department.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
  • Four or more years of experience independently drafting and negotiating contracts, including significant experience with brand licensing agreements, within book publishing or the licensing function of a consumer-products, entertainment, or media company.
  • Working knowledge of intellectual property concepts, contract terminology, approval rights, royalty structures, and licensing practices.
  • Strong written and verbal communication, contract drafting, and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, prioritize effectively under pressure, and manage multiple deadlines.
  • Collaborative and team-oriented.

Application Information

  • Cover letters are strongly preferred.

Compensation and Benefits

  • The salary range for this position is $100,000 - $110,000.
  • Offers will be tailored within the range based on the selected candidate's experience, industry knowledge, technical and communication skills, and other relevant factors.
  • In addition to cash compensation, the company provides a comprehensive and highly competitive benefits package, with a variety of physical health, retirement and savings, caregiving, emotional wellbeing, transportation, and other benefits, including "elective" benefits employees may select to best fit the needs and personal situations of our diverse workforce.