Publisher (10-month Fixed Term Contract)

Background

Book Dash is a social impact publisher of open licensed, African picture books for preschool children. We tackle the complex systems that make having books in the home inaccessible to most children. Using a unique, replicable model, we create, translate, print and distribute high-quality books to preschool children and their families to own. This enriches the home learning environment and is shown to boost child developmental outcomes. Book Dash is an important role player in the early literacy ecosystem, providing resources for early stimulation and learning to programmes working in sectors like ECD, literacy, parenting and healthcare.

Purpose

The Publisher leads the roll-out of the open content and digital distribution strategies and gives input into Book Dash’s wider publishing strategies. Reporting to the Director of Programmes and Operations, they ensure that all work meets agreed quality standards, budgets, and timeframes. This role requires independent problem solving, a demonstrated interest in working with digital tools and systems, a love for collaboration and a commitment to support Book Dash’s vision that ‘Every child should own a hundred books by the age of five’.

Location

Cape Town, Mowbray. In-office position with flexibility for work-from-home options.

More about the role and how to apply

Key responsibilities

  • Publishing Strategy and Open Content Management Lead the roll-out of Book Dash’s open content and digital distribution strategy to expand access to African children’s books. Build and manage relationships with printing and open content partners to grow Book Dash’s reach and impact.  Support the publication and promotion of books and translations across digital platforms.
  • Project Management Manage publishing and distribution projects, ensuring timelines, budgets and quality standards are met. Support the planning and delivery of Book Dash’s collaborative book-creation events.
  • Systems, Tech and Metadata Oversee the digital systems and tools that support publishing and distribution workflows.  Coordinate external suppliers and support strong metadata, digital filing and website management practices.

Requirements 

Qualifications and experience

  • A degree-level qualification in a relevant field.
  • At least 5 years professional experience working in publishing (digital or print), and experience in project management.
  • An understanding of the early literacy landscape will be a distinct advantage.

Competencies and qualities

  • Proven track record of successfully engaging with digital tools and data to improve processes and resolve challenges.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills.
  • A curious, proactive learner who enjoys exploring new ideas, tools and systems, interested in digging deeper to understand and find solutions for complex problems.
  • Holds high ethical standards embodying Book Dash’s organisational values in all interactions.
  • Embraces teamwork and collaboration as a key member of a small team.
  • Adaptable and happy to manage additional tasks or ad hoc projects as capacity allows to support the broader strategy.
  • Demonstrated drive to make a positive difference in the world.

All Book Dash team members are guided by the Code of Conduct to which they agree. 

Applying

This is a 10-month Fixed Term Contract.
If this role sounds like a good fit, please apply by completing the short online application form HERE and emailing your CV and a 1-page motivation letter to recruitment@bookdash.org.

Book Dash strives to be a diverse and equitable organisation. Preference will be given to South African black candidates as defined by the B-BBEE Act. 

Timelines

  • Closing date: 3 June 2026.
  • Please accept your application as unsuccessful if you have not heard from us by end of June 2026.

Offer and Compensation

Exact start date, salary offer and additional benefits will be discussed with the preferred candidate informed by experience and skillset.

Image