Associate – Audiobook Licensing, Author Partnerships

Job Description:

• Identify and evaluate audiobook catalogs from independent authors, hybrid publishers, independent presses, and distribution partners that will resonate with Spotify listeners.
• Negotiate audiobook licensing agreements and commercial partnerships that create long-term value for Spotify and our publishing partners.
• Build trusted relationships across a diverse portfolio of independent publishers, distributors, and authors, serving as their primary strategic contact.
• Develop creative partnership structures that support sustainable growth while meeting the evolving needs of creators and publishing businesses.
• Use market insights, performance analytics, and commercial data to inform acquisition strategies and identify new partnership opportunities.
• Partner with creators and publishers to optimize catalog performance, improve discoverability, and resolve operational challenges.
• Collaborate closely with Product, Editorial, Growth, Operations, Finance, and other cross-functional teams to improve partner experience and support Spotify's audiobook strategy.
• Advocate internally for the needs of independent creators and publishers, helping shape future product capabilities and strategic initiatives.
• Contribute to initiatives focused on catalog expansion, subscriber value, listening growth, operational excellence, and blended cost per content hour (CPCH) optimization.

Requirements:

• 3+ years of experience in publishing, digital media, business development, content licensing, content partnerships, or a related field.
• Experience negotiating and closing commercial licensing, distribution, or partnership agreements.
• Strong understanding of the independent publishing ecosystem, including indie authors, hybrid publishers, audiobook distributors, and digital publishing models.
• Understanding the unique opportunities and challenges facing entrepreneurial creators and independent publishing businesses.
• Ability to build trusted relationships and effectively influence a broad range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in using data, financial insights, and market trends to inform commercial decisions and partnership strategies.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively while maintaining strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfort navigating ambiguity, taking ownership, and finding practical solutions to complex business challenges.
• Passion for helping creators succeed and interest in audiobooks, storytelling, and the evolving creator economy.
• Bachelor’s degree; an MBA or other advanced degree is beneficial.
• Willingness to collaborate across multiple time zones and travel when needed.

Benefits:

• Flexible work arrangements