Publishing Inventory Specialist

Job Summary

VIZ Media, the world leader in English-language versions of manga and anime (Japanese comics and animation), is looking for a Publishing Inventory Specialist to join our Publishing Sales team. The ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail and data analysis and can promptly determine reprint quantities for our global book distributions. 

The Publishing Inventory Specialist will work closely with the Publishing Sales Director to manage the print book inventory to meet Publishing Sales goals and objectives. This position requires effective collaboration with internal VIZ Media teams and external publishing distribution partners.

What you’ll do:

• Create, prepare, and distribute regular stock reports.
• Provide weekly recommendations for reprint quantities and timing.
• Provide analysis and perspective of publishing sales reporting to identify market, retail, and title trends; present trends and data analysis to various departments and external distribution partners.
• Manage relationships with assigned distribution partners as directed by the Publishing Sales department head including, but not limited to: direct deliveries, demand planning, special orders, overstock management, and initial print runs.
• In conjunction with the Publishing Sales and Marketing team, advises on production, inventory, and logistical needs as required for the creation and implementation of planned promotions. 
• Work with the Publishing Production team to update expected due dates for stock on order.
• Work with the Editorial, Production, and Finance teams to monitor expected inventory demand in the US, the UK, and Australia, providing recommendations for strategy and actions.

The ideal candidate has: 

• 3+ years of practical business experience, preferably in an administrative capacity with inventory-related responsibilities
• Basic understanding and comprehension of sales and financial terminology
• Proficiency with data analysis and comprehension 
• Strong presentation skills with the ability to respond effectively to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and external partners.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
• Strong administrative and project management skills
• Professional communication skills, capable of engaging with a culturally diverse range of clients, providers, and staff and communicating creative feedback effectively
• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university, or equivalent experience, with a record that demonstrates suitable preparation for this position

Additional preferred skills/knowledge: 

• Experience in book publishing sales a PLUS
• Knowledge of anime and manga a PLUS

Work Environment & Schedule

Location: The Publishing Inventory Specialist is open to candidates local to the San Francisco Bay Area. VIZ Media operates on a hybrid schedule with 1-2 days of work onsite at our downtown San Francisco office expected weekly. 

Schedule: This is a Regular Full-Time position (40 hours per week) with core hours of 10 am to 4 pm with some flexibility as needed. 

Compensation: $75,000 - $85,000 annually, depending on experience, with additional variable compensation