Vice President, Director of Finance and Business Strategy (Hybrid) - USA Jobs : Job Details

Do you want to shape the future of children's publishing through strategic leadership and financial excellence? Random House Children's Books, the home of iconic authors and unforgettable series and brands, is seeking a visionary finance leader to step into the role of Vice President, Director of Finance and Business Strategy.

Reporting directly to the division's President, you'll play a vital role in guiding both day-to-day financial operations and long-term business strategic direction. You'll partner closely with the divisional lead team which includes the deputy publisher, publishers, and department heads, as well as the corporate finance team to ensure the continued growth and impact of our books and brands for the next generation of readers.

This role is perfect for a finance professional who's not just numbers-driven, but purpose-driven - someone who believes in the power of storytelling and wants their work to have a meaningful cultural footprint.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Lead the Finance Function for the #1 Kids Publisher in the U.S.
• Manages and mentors a talented finance team of three.
• Oversees budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and strategic modeling to support titles that inspire millions of young readers.
• Delivers timely and insightful reporting to senior leadership, connecting financial trends with creative and operational decisions.
• Ensures compliance with financial standards, policies, and audit processes in partnership with Corporate Finance.
• Act as a Strategic Partner
• Advises on key acquisitions, title development, pricing strategies, and inventory decisions.
• Collaborates with the Legal and Contracts teams on deal structuring and negotiation, especially for licensed properties.
• Analyzes and interprets business drivers - from sales velocity to cost structures - to recommend actionable steps for growth and efficiency.
• Guides strategic priorities across the division and help optimize resource allocation, partnering with the production team and other departments.
• Drive Long-Term Growth
• Identifies and communicates risks, opportunities, and industry trends that influence financial performance.
• Provides financial support for licensing deals, joint ventures, and potential M&A opportunities.
• Maintains strong relationships with licensors, agents, and external partners - including reviewing forecasting and reporting.

Please apply if you meet the following qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; MBA preferred
• 10+ years of progressive experience in finance or accounting - ideally in children's publishing, media, or entertainment
• Advanced Excel skills; experience with SAP, Power BI, and Anaplan a plus
• A big-picture thinker with a sharp analytical mind and clear communication style
• Someone who thrives in cross-functional environments, balancing structure with flexibility
• Experience managing a team, with a collaborative leadership approach
• A genuine interest in the creative industries, especially children's media and publishing

The salary range for this position is $170,000 - $225,000. All positions are currently eligible for an annual profit award or bonus, subject to company results.

This is a hybrid position with in-office responsibilities. We will consider candidates who can work from a commutable distance to our offices at 1745 Broadway, which includes the tri-state area (NJ, CT, & PA).

Please apply by August 22, 2025 and include your resume and cover letter for consideration.

Penguin Random House values the array of talents and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.