The production of print and online publications is the responsibility of a publications manager. They work for businesses, non-profits, colleges and universities, local governments, and other organizations that rely on written content. Technical documents, marketing collateral, company procedures, business proposals, and a wide range of written material are all created publications managers. The responsibilities of a publications manager will differ depending on the organization and its size.
A publications manager in a small organization or company may wear a variety of hats. In comparison to a large corporation, the publications manager is much more hands-on, and may do anything and everything required to produce written material. In a smaller company, the publications manager may do all of the writing and editing, designing and laying out, printing, and mailing themselves, or with minimal help.
Publications managers usually hold a higher position within large companies and organizations. They are in charge of overseeing the entire publishing process, from conception to completion. Senior publications managers, publications directors, communications management, or people with similar job titles may report to publications managers in large organizations.
A publications manager’s responsibilities include setting budgets and schedules, coordinating workloads, and supervising teams of writers, editors, illustrators, Web designers, and others. They may also conduct interviews and hire full-time and freelance workers. Publications managers also have the responsibility of negotiating prices with print vendors and approving final products before they are printed and distributed.
Other departments within a company or organization frequently approach publications managers for assistance in putting together written materials. They must be diplomatic when discussing and explaining editing changes because they edit the work of people from other organizations. Publications managers are in charge of putting together organizational style guides and keeping them up to date. Organizational style guides ensure that words, punctuation, grammar, and other elements are used consistently. When it comes to publishing style decisions for the company or organization, the publications manager is the final arbiter.
Publication managers usually have a four-year degree in journalism, English, communications, public affairs, or a related field. Managers of publications must be skilled in writing, editing, and proofreading. They should also be well-organized, deadline-oriented, able to juggle multiple projects, work well under pressure, and have strong supervisory and interpersonal skills. Strong computer skills are also necessary, particularly for more hands-on publications managers who are expected to do their own word processing, design, and desktop publishing.