Job Description

Hardie Grant is a leading independent publisher specialising in illustrated non-fiction, fiction, kids, travel and lifestyle titles, including a dynamic portfolio of overseas publishers. 

We are seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join our team on a full-time, 6-month contract. This is a hands-on, senior role supporting our Australian publishing divisions and working closely with our North American colleagues to manage author, illustrator, rights and commercial agreements.

Reporting to the Managing Director, Hardie Grant Publishing, you will lead the end-to-end contracting lifecycle — negotiating, executing and administering agreements with accuracy, commercial judgement and deep industry knowledge. You will play a critical role in safeguarding copyright and intellectual property, supporting publishing schedules and enabling timely payments.

About the role

Key responsibilities include:

• Drafting and negotiating author, illustrator, rights and commercial agreements across Hardie Grant Publishing

• Working with the Hardie Grant North America team on US author contracts

• Managing and maintaining an accurate contracts database, including summaries, amendments, terminations and reversions

• Advising publishers and MDs on contracts, subsidiary rights, copyright and digital developments

• Administering rights and permissions agreements, including invoicing

• Supporting PLR and ELR processes in collaboration with Royalties

• Partnering with Finance to ensure timely contractual payments

• Liaising with editors on permissions, copyright issues and infringements.

About you

• Proven experience managing publishing contracts end-to-end

• Strong working knowledge of copyright, subsidiary rights and industry standards

• Exceptional attention to detail and contract administration capability

• Confidence working with senior stakeholders, authors and agents

• Able to balance commercial priorities with legal, editorial and operational needs

• Experience with Firebrand or similar publishing systems is advantageous.

What we offer

• Hybrid working from our state-of-the-art Collingwood head office

• Salary range: $85,000–$95,000 + superannuation (pro rata)

• L&D programs

• Additional leave

• The opportunity to work with a passionate, collaborative team in a values-driven, independent publishing business.

To apply, please submit your current CV and an accompanying cover letter. Candidates will be progressed as applications are received, rather than after the advertisement closure date. If you wish to be considered, please submit your application as soon as possible.

Hardie Grant is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply, including people who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and people with a disability. We look forward to meeting you!