At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Assistant Editor/Editor, supporting editorial tasks and liaising with authors.
- Company: Duckworth is a prestigious independent publisher, revitalising literature since 1898.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and a friendly team environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative process that shapes engaging non-fiction and humorous fiction.
- Qualifications: 1-2 years of editorial experience and a keen eye for detail are essential.
- Other info: Potential for progression into commissioning roles, especially for our Farrago imprint.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity to contribute to two growing imprints at an esteemed independent publisher. Duckworth is a publisher of first-class, stimulating non-fiction and literary/historical fiction, founded in 1898 and since revitalised for the 21st century. In non-fiction, we enjoy publishing stories of identity, travel and nature; history; politics; biography; and popular science and psychology. In the past year, Duckworth titles have won or been nominated for awards including the HWA Crowns, RSL Christopher Bland Prize, RSL Ondaatje Prize, Sports Book of the Year and Women's Prize.
Established in 2016, Farrago is the world’s only imprint dedicated to ‘fiction to make you smile’. Farrago publishes accessible, series-led humorous fiction and cosy crime for a range of enthusiastic readers.
We’re looking for an assistant editor or editor to work across both imprints, supporting the Publisher on editorial and day-to-day publishing tasks; leading on editorial project (desk editing) work; liaising with authors, agents and other stakeholders as required; supporting on copywriting, metadata and AI generation; and reading submissions and contributing to our acquisitions process. With time, there is the potential to progress to some commissioning, particularly for Farrago.
This role would suit a commercially minded publishing professional who has 1-2 years’ experience within an editorial department and is eager to grow their skills and responsibilities as part of a small, friendly, independent team. Proven editorial project management experience is essential, as are a meticulous eye for detail and a solid grasp of the current publishing landscape. Experience of digital-led or series-led publishing would be an advantage.
You’ll have the skills and passion to support the creation of a book through each stage of its life, from the seed of an idea to profitable publication and beyond. Most importantly, you will be dedicated, emotionally intelligent, creative, full of ideas, an avid reader and a strong team player.
This is a full-time role based minimum 2-3 days per week at Duckworth’s offices in Richmond-on-Thames. We welcome requests for regular homeworking days or flexible hours by arrangement. We are committed to being an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who have relevant experience.
Salary range: £24,000-£28,000, depending on experience. Please apply with a covering letter and CV, addressed to Rowan Cope, Publisher, via email to careers@duckworthbooks.com by 23 May 2023.
Duckworth Book Group: Assistant Editor/Editor employer: BookBrunch Limited
Contact Detail:
BookBrunch Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Duckworth Book Group: Assistant Editor/Editor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Duckworth's recent publications and their imprints. Understanding their editorial style and the types of books they publish will help you tailor your approach when discussing your ideas and experiences during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the publishing industry, especially those who have experience in editorial roles. Attend literary events, workshops, or online webinars to connect with others and gain insights that could be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your project management experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed editorial projects, as this is a key requirement for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for literature and the publishing industry by being well-read and up-to-date with current trends. This will not only demonstrate your enthusiasm but also your ability to contribute creatively to the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Duckworth Book Group: Assistant Editor/Editor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description. Understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Assistant Editor/Editor position at Duckworth Book Group, as this will help you tailor your application.
Craft a Tailored Covering Letter: Write a covering letter that specifically addresses how your experience aligns with the role. Highlight your editorial project management experience and your passion for both non-fiction and humorous fiction, as these are key aspects of the job.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any relevant experience you have in publishing, particularly within an editorial department. Include specific examples of projects you've managed or contributed to, especially those that demonstrate your attention to detail and understanding of the publishing landscape.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your covering letter and CV. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, as this reflects your meticulous eye for detail, which is essential for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at BookBrunch Limited
✨Show Your Passion for Publishing
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the publishing industry and specifically for Duckworth's imprints. Share your favourite titles from their catalogue and discuss what excites you about their approach to non-fiction and humorous fiction.
✨Demonstrate Your Editorial Skills
Prepare examples of your previous editorial work, highlighting your project management experience. Be ready to discuss how you've contributed to the editorial process, from reading submissions to liaising with authors and agents.
✨Understand the Current Publishing Landscape
Research current trends in both non-fiction and humorous fiction. Be prepared to discuss how these trends could influence Duckworth's future publications and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Be Ready to Share Ideas
Think of a few creative ideas for potential book projects or marketing strategies that align with Duckworth's mission. This will show your initiative and ability to think outside the box, which is crucial for a role that involves supporting the Publisher.