Senior Art Director

Senior Art Director - Book Publishing & TypographyThe luxury book publisher founded by Prosper and Martine Assouline has published over 2,000 titles worldwide across architecture, art, design, fashion, gastronomy, lifestyle, photography, and travel.We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Art Director with deep expertise in book publishing, typography, and print production to lead the design and creative development of our luxury illustrated titles. This role is ideal for a designer who understands books as objects of culture"”where typography, pacing, materials, and imagery work together to create timeless, collectible works.This is a full-time, in-office position (5 days per week) based in our NYC office. The ideal candidate must present a portfolio demonstrating significant book publishing experience, including completed titles and strong typographic systems.Position OverviewReporting directly to the Creative Director, the Senior Art Director will oversee approximately 15-20 luxury book projects annually from concept through final print production. This role requires mastery of typographic design, visual storytelling, and physical book construction, as well as the ability to collaborate with editors, publishers, production teams, and external clients.In addition to leading internal creative development, this individual will participate in client meetings, pitches, and presentations, confidently articulating design direction and creative rationale.Key ResponsibilitiesCreative & Design LeadershipLead the creative direction and design of high-end illustrated books from concept to printDevelop sophisticated typographic systems, grids, and layouts that elevate storytelling and reinforce brand identityEstablish visual narratives that balance imagery, pacing, white space, and hierarchyCreate and oversee templates, cover concepts, and interior architectureMaintain exceptional attention to detail across typography, kerning, tracking, leading, and print finishesInstruct and mentor designers in executing creative directionClient & Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with Creative Director, Editors, and Publishers from initial vision through publicationParticipate in client meetings, pitches, and creative presentationsClearly articulate design concepts and defend creative decisions with strategic rationaleLiaise closely with Editorial, Communications, Production, and external partnersProduction & Technical ExcellencePrepare and oversee print-ready mechanicals for offset productionCollaborate with printers on materials, finishes, and color accuracyDirect in-house photo and video shoots when requiredConduct image research and oversee photo selectionManage file routing, archiving, and reprint updatesEnsure projects meet deadlines without compromising design integrityRequired Qualifications7+ years of professional experience in book publishing and print designDemonstrated portfolio of completed, printed books (luxury, art, fashion, architecture, or similar highly visual categories preferred)Advanced mastery of typography, layout systems, and visual hierarchyDeep understanding of offset printing, materials, binding, and production processesExceptional aesthetic judgment and attention to detailStrong communication and presentation skills, particularly in client-facing settingsAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline-driven environmentAdvanced proficiency in Mac OS and Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator)Portfolio submission is required. Applications without substantial book publishing and typography samples will not be considered.You Will Thrive in This Role If You Are:Conceptually Rigorous - You approach book design as both narrative and object, considering structure, typography, materials, and experience holistically.Typographically Obsessed - You care deeply about letterforms, spacing, rhythm, and refinement.Client-Confident - You are comfortable presenting creative ideas and engaging directly with partners.Detail-Oriented - You uphold the highest standards in production accuracy and finishing.Collaborative Yet Autonomous - You lead decisively while fostering strong studio relationships.Motivated & Inquisitive - You continuously refine your craft and remain curious about culture, design, and publishing.The appointed candidate will be offered a salary within the range of $120,000-$155,000 annually, pursuant to the New York City Salary Transparency Law. This range represents a good-faith estimate for this role.Assouline is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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