Resume

Nana K. Twumasi | Resumé

Oberlin College (B.A. English), 2002 | California College of the Arts (MFA, Writing), 2007

VP and publisher of Grand Central Publishing’s Balance imprint, focused on practical nonfiction

Set vision, strategy, and positioning for psychology and self help product lines
Train, manage and develop a team of editors, and oversee management and execution of their titles
Accountable for quarterly team productivity goals, budget management, and overall product quality in serving the consumer
Partner cross-functionally with Research & Development, Operations, and Design teams to reduce concept-to-launch cycle times and make processes more efficient

Managed publishing process from data research, through writing and editing phases, product packaging development, and final print-ready deliverables for 20-30 books annually
Initiated and lead category expansion into new markets like self-improvement, trade psychology, and Christian categories, which now account for 15% of all books published annually, with high revenue returns
Sourced and hired freelance writers and editorial professionals, negotiating contract terms and deliverable deadlines
Collaborated cross-functionally with Design department personnel and manage interior and front cover design; likewise, collaborated with Marketing department to develop appropriate marketing and publicity approach. Supervised and conceptualized book design. Collaborated and consult on like projects within the company
Participated in training and mentoring new editorial staff, engaged in community efforts within the company, such as diversity and inclusion initiatives, developed style guides, and streamlined workflows across functions.

Develop content for a range of publications, including Telegraph Media (Oakland Magazine, Alameda Magazine, The East Bay Monthly); Visit Oakland, and Make Change, focusing on fashion and style, through the lenses of ethics, sustainability, and diversity.
Edit books and longform pieces for clarity, consistency, and accuracy for Berrett-Koehler and McSweeney’s.

Wrote, copyedited, production edited, and project managed museum-related print and digital pieces including brochures, annual reports, posters, postcards, invitations, eBlasts and programs.
Collaborated with design and online media departments, providing copyediting and proofreading support as needed.

Pitched, researched, and wrote pieces on the topic of public health policy and wellness interests for external publications and advised on overarching communications strategies.
Managed website content, blog posts and letters to the editor, constructing email blasts and newsletters to target audience

Highlight the greater literary conversation by curating literature by new voices and offering new perspectives.
Reviewed and evaluated prose and poetry submissions for diverse content and fresh viewpoints.
Organized journal release parties and literary events.
Maintained and updated website articles and essays.

Reviewed manuscripts for publishing potential and edited manuscripts, jacket, and catalog copy.
Researched and developed projects in the K-12 education category and represented company at industry conferences and trade shows.