At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sales strategy and drive growth for Pan Macmillan in Asia & the Middle East.
- Company: Join a dynamic publishing team at Pan Macmillan, known for its collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, flexible hours, and discounts on books.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community dedicated to inclusion and continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make an impact in international publishing while supporting diverse voices and stories.
- Qualifications: Experience in international publishing sales and strong people management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has become available in our sales team! We are looking for a Head of Sales to drive the growth, commercial strategy, and reach of Pan Macmillan’s outstanding publishing list across these dynamic international markets. You will also play a key role supporting Macmillan Children’s Books (MCB) globally, shaping how our world-class children’s and YA titles connect with readers worldwide.
Your team will lead a dedicated and successful international sales team, managing team members based in our UK office, as well as our regional teams based in Hong Kong and China. We are a collaborative, strategic, and friendly team that focuses on building strong relationships with global customers. Together, we work closely with internal publishing teams, international partners, and distribution networks to champion our authors and books.
Your main focus will be to maximize book sales and lead the commercial strategy for your designated areas. You will manage important customer relationships, support your team, and grow international revenue. Additionally, you will work closely with the MCB UK & International Sales Director to oversee children’s and YA forecasting, costings, and book selections for international markets.
Your key responsibilities:
- Deliver sales budgets and strategy: Create and run the sales strategy to meet or exceed commercial sales targets across Asia & the Middle East.
- Manage international teams: Manage, guide, and support the UK-based Asia & Middle East team, as well as our teams in Hong Kong and China.
- Build strong customer partnerships: Manage relationships with major international bookshops, accounts, and distributors to grow our market share.
- Oversee distribution and logistics: Manage critical working relationships with Macmillan Distribution for credit control and distribution.
- Share market trends: Research and analyse international book markets, popular genres, and competitor strategies.
- Support Children’s International publishing: Work closely with the MCB Sales Director to manage international costings, sales forecasts, and new book choices.
- Manage agency publishers: Take responsibility for the sales performance and management of third-party publishers.
Essential experience, abilities, knowledge and values you’ll need to succeed:
- International publishing sales experience.
- Children’s and YA market knowledge.
- Territory experience in Asia and the Middle East.
- People management experience.
- Commercial and budget skills.
- Communication and negotiation skills.
- Inclusion and representation dedication.
- Community collaboration.
- Curiosity and a strong drive for learning.
- Integrity and openness.
What you’ll get in return:
- 28 days’ annual leave increasing with years of service + bank holidays.
- Generous pension scheme.
- Discounted private medical insurance or health cash plan.
- Group income protection scheme.
- Enhanced family pay and leave.
- Flexible working hours and summer hours.
- 2 volunteer days per year.
- 75% off all Pan Macmillan books.
- Season ticket loan/advance.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Discounts on shopping and gym memberships.
- Daily free breakfast and monthly company lunch.
How to apply & eligibility:
All applications must be submitted via our careers site to be considered. All applicants must be able to demonstrate the right to live and work in the UK.
Our commitment to diversity & inclusion:
At Pan Macmillan, we are committed to publishing a wide range of voices that reflect the full breadth of the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, including any age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio‑economic background, religion and/or belief.
Disability confident scheme:
As a Disability Confident employer, we actively encourage applications from disabled candidates and people with long‑term health conditions.
Adjustment & support:
If you have any reasonable adjustments or accessibility requirements, please contact Kayelle Danyluk (Head of Talent Acquisition).
Privacy notice:
All personal information which we process in connection with your application will be treated in accordance with our Recruitment Privacy Notice.
Head of Sales, Asia & Middle East employer: Pan Macmillan
Macmillan Children’s Books is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional growth. With generous benefits such as flexible working hours, extensive leave, and a commitment to diversity, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles while contributing to the success of beloved children's literature. Located in Farringdon, London, the company provides a dynamic environment where creativity flourishes and team members can make a meaningful impact on global storytelling.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sales, Asia & Middle East
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Head of Sales, Asia & Middle East at Pan Macmillan, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including Pan Macmillan. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Head of Sales, Asia & Middle East. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sales, Asia & Middle East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for Pan Macmillan:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Pan Macmillan. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pan Macmillan
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show Pan Macmillan that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show Pan Macmillan that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with Pan Macmillan’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
