Senior Royalty Manager

Job Description:

• Lead and manage a squad of 2–3 Royalty Managers
• Supervise, mentor, and develop team members; set goals, priorities, and performance expectations
• Oversee task assignments, workflow, coverage, deadlines, team meetings, performance reviews, feedback, and coaching
• Own royalty statement preparation and issuance for an imprint
• Review and apply contract terms and oversee payee setup in the royalty system
• Review and analyze sales data interfacing with the royalty system
• Post expenses, fees, and deductions to the royalty system
• Conduct initial and subsequent reviews of royalty statements for accuracy and compliance
• Calculate and record reserves for returns
• Prepare manual adjustments and statements when required
• Process new contracts and amendments for an imprint
• Review, code, and approve advance and payment requests
• Ensure compliance with U.S. and foreign tax withholding, reporting, and filing requirements
• Act as an escalation point for complex royalty-related issues
• Communicate with internal and external stakeholders, including agents and authors
• Identify recurring issues or risk areas and lead resolution
• Contribute to process improvements and best practices
• Assist with workflow and resourcing across the team, including backup for weekly and period-end payment processes

Requirements:

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams
• Deep understanding of royalty operations, complex payment structures, contract royalty terms, and their practical application to statement preparation
• Detail-oriented and analytical, with sound judgment and a track record of catching and resolving discrepancies
• Exceptional verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
• Highly proficient with Microsoft Excel, Google Workspace, databases, and system queries
• Excellent organizational skills; able to manage high volumes of data, meet deadlines, and multitask in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Strong organizational and resourceful skills with the ability to lead change, manage cross-functional initiatives, and navigate unexpected events
• High degree of personal and professional integrity, with a commitment to accuracy, transparency, and service excellence
• 5+ years of progressive experience in royalty accounting and statement preparation, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or team lead role
• Extensive experience with royalty contracts and their application
• Book publishing experience preferred
• Proficiency with Biblio royalty platform strongly preferred
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance preferred, or equivalent experience
• Employment subject to New York State tax withholding under applicable regulations