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- Tasks: Lead and shape the future of crime, thriller, and horror publishing.
- Company: Join Dorling Kindersley, a global leader in illustrated publishing.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, remote work options, and a generous pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving literary innovation and discovering new voices.
- Qualifications: Passion for fiction publishing with a successful track record in commissioning.
- Other info: Flexible working policy and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Editorial Director to lead our crime, thriller, and horror lists. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of Canelo and discover the next literary sensations. We are looking for a seasoned leader who can develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for our cross-genre fiction list, whilst setting and maintaining a high editorial standard. You will have a keen eye for talent and a passion for discovering new voices, and be able to build and maintain relationships with authors, agents, freelancers and other industry professionals. There is also the opportunity for hands-on editing, as you will manage book projects from conception through to print.
Your other responsibilities include:
- Oversee the entire editorial process, from manuscript acquisition to publication, ensuring timely delivery and exceptional quality
- Stay abreast of industry trends and reader preferences to identify emerging opportunities
- Work closely with marketing, sales, and production teams to ensure seamless execution of publishing projects
- Manage, inspire, and motivate a team
- Oversee multiple projects at the same time - often at different stages of development
- Provide stellar author-care
- Work independently, whilst being a key team player
- Shape editorial content from an initial outline and adapt it to meet an agreed commercial brief
Our ideal candidate has a huge passion for fiction publishing and reading. A successful track-record in commissioning and publishing, with a keen editorial eye. If you would like to drive Canelo forward, and be a part of the team that takes it to the next level, please apply. Please submit your most recent CV and a cover letter describing your interest in the crime, thriller, and horror genres, and why you want to work with these lists.
Closing date for applications is: 4 April 2025
We have a range of benefits to reflect our commitment to our people, some of which are:
- 25 days paid holiday entitlement in year one, plus bank holidays
- Generous pension scheme
- Volunteering policy and charity matching
- Employee assistance programme
- 60% discount on company books
- Cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership
- Flex Fridays (1pm Finish*)
- Shopping discounts
- Up to 30 days remote working from abroad
And we plant a tree for every new employee to our business. DK is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the varied communities that read our books across the world. We encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of age, religion, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexuality or social background. DK is proud to announce that we have adopted The Halo Code. DK is a member of the disability confident scheme. We guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies. DK supports flexible working and has introduced a new 'smart-working' policy with a hybrid approach of working weekly from home and in DK's office. Please note, this role requires a minimum of three days per week in the office.
The Book Trade Charity offers financial support to people looking to enter the book trade, but who may struggle to afford the costs of attending interviews or undertaking internships.
About our Company: We believe in the power of discovery. That’s why we create books for everyone that explore ideas and nurture curiosity about the world we live in. We are the world’s leading illustrated publisher and a member of the Penguin Random House division of Bertelsmann, creating cutting-edge design and stunning visual books for the whole family. We are passionate about inspiring curiosity and bringing people to books through their thirst for knowledge.
Canelo - Editorial Director employer: Bertelsmann
Contact Detail:
Bertelsmann Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Canelo - Editorial Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network with industry professionals by attending literary events, book fairs, and author signings. Building relationships with authors, agents, and other editors can give you insights into the latest trends and opportunities in the crime, thriller, and horror genres.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current publishing trends by following relevant blogs, podcasts, and social media accounts. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your passion for the genre and your commitment to staying ahead in the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to current or former employees of Canelo or Dorling Kindersley to gain insights about the company culture and expectations for the Editorial Director role. This can provide you with valuable information that can be used during your application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past editorial successes, particularly in the crime, thriller, and horror genres. Being able to articulate your experience in commissioning and nurturing talent will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Canelo - Editorial Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a compelling cover letter that specifically addresses your interest in the crime, thriller, and horror genres. Highlight your passion for these categories and explain why you want to work with Canelo's lists.
Showcase Your Experience: In your CV, emphasise your previous experience in editorial roles, particularly any leadership positions. Detail your track record in commissioning and publishing, and include specific examples of successful projects you've managed.
Demonstrate Industry Knowledge: Make sure to convey your understanding of current industry trends and reader preferences in your application. This will show that you are proactive and knowledgeable about the market, which is crucial for the Editorial Director role.
Highlight Relationship Management Skills: Since the role involves building relationships with authors, agents, and other professionals, include examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to manage and inspire teams, as well as your author-care approach.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bertelsmann
✨Show Your Passion for Fiction
Make sure to express your genuine love for crime, thriller, and horror genres during the interview. Share specific examples of books or authors that have inspired you, and discuss how this passion drives your editorial decisions.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As an Editorial Director, you'll need to manage and inspire a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully motivated teams in the past, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Prepare for Industry Trends Discussion
Stay updated on current trends in the publishing industry, particularly within the crime and thriller genres. Be ready to share your insights on emerging opportunities and how you would leverage them for Canelo's success.
✨Highlight Your Editorial Experience
Discuss your previous experience in commissioning and editing. Provide concrete examples of projects you've managed from conception to publication, and how you ensured high editorial standards throughout the process.
