Editorial Director

Editorial Director

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the Robinson imprint, shaping publishing strategy and acquiring exciting non-fiction titles.
  • Company: Join Little, Brown, a dynamic and award-winning UK publisher with diverse imprints.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 28+ days of leave, private medical insurance, and generous discounts on books.
  • Why this job: Be part of a creative team that publishes impactful non-fiction and engages with influential authors.
  • Qualifications: Creative mindset and strong communication skills; previous editorial experience not essential.
  • Other info: Flexible working with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Little, Brown's identity is personified by our innovative, dynamic and free-thinking people. Across our thirteen imprints, you won't find a wider range of titles anywhere in UK publishing. We pride ourselves on quality and diversity. A repeat recipient of the Publisher of the Year award, we are one of the most successful and dynamic publishers in the UK. Little, Brown is a division of Hachette, one of the largest publishing groups in the UK, with 10 publishing divisions and over 60 imprints.

Robinson is a Little, Brown imprint in three distinct parts: dynamic narrative non-fiction; market-leading Robinson Psychology; and practical How To and cookery. We publish books with a ‘Do, Think, Feel’ ethos. Our authors are million-copy bestsellers, specialists and academics, change-makers, storytellers and influencers.

We publish books that illuminate extraordinary life stories, lead cultural conversations, open doors to big subjects and entertain along the way. From fresh perspectives in pop culture, science and nature to powerful memoir and talking-point ideas, we’re the home of non-fiction with heart and agenda.

Robinson’s How To list offers practical, inspiring, bestselling guides to just about anything that anyone might want to do: from writing a wedding speech to learning to read music; from training your dog to managing your money. We publish books on everything from cookery, gardening, health and parenting to creative writing, property investment and do-it-yourself legal guides. Each book is written by an expert you can trust, to inspire as well as instruct.

The role involves being part of a team that publishes some of the most exciting and wide-ranging nonfiction in the UK. We are looking for a dynamic and energetic editorial director, who will be the driving force behind the Robinson list, shaping its publishing and strategy. The ideal candidate will be highly creative, proactive, solution-driven as well as an excellent communicator. An original, open-minded and highly commercial mindset is an absolute must. Previous editorial experience is not essential, though the skillset necessary to originate books and run a varied list should be demonstrated in the covering letter.

Responsibilities include:

  • Setting the publishing strategy for Robinson and engendering a long-term vision that will inform the acquisition of new titles.
  • Acquiring and publishing a set number of titles annually across a wide range of nonfiction genres.
  • Developing original ideas, which can be published commercially.
  • Forming and maintaining strong relationships with agents and authors.
  • Exhibiting sound commercial judgment through the identification of new trends and opportunities in the market.
  • Managing the publishing process, from commissioning and editing through to scheduling and publication.
  • Paying close attention to detail, both editorially and financially, especially in writing first-rate copy.
  • Managing the imprint’s day-to-day business, delivering set targets.
  • Championing the interests of the list at in-house meetings.

Our staff are our greatest asset, and our benefits reflect this:

  • 28 annual leave days per year, increasing to 29 days after 2 years' service and up to 30 days after 5 years' (+ bank holidays)
  • Private medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Generous pension schemes
  • Rent deposit loans
  • 2 community days per year
  • Summer hours (finishing at 1pm on Fridays during the summer months)
  • Retail discounts through Hachette rewards
  • Cycle to Work scheme
  • Eye care vouchers
  • Wide-ranging training library
  • Development programmes (including mentoring)
  • Up to 70% off book purchases
  • A charity bookshelf
  • 12 Staff-led employee networks that are voluntary
  • Season ticket loans
  • And much more!

The role will be based at our London office, with a blend of in-office (3 days) and homeworking (2 days) per week.

Hachette employs people on the basis of their abilities. We aim to attract and develop talent from a base as broad as the world of readers we want to reach, with a wide and representative range of age, faith, disability, race, gender, sexuality and socio-economic, regional and cultural backgrounds.

Editorial Director employer: 55 Redefined Ltd

At Little, Brown, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that champions creativity and innovation. As an Editorial Director, you will enjoy a wealth of benefits including generous annual leave, private medical insurance, and extensive training opportunities, all while working in the heart of London. Our commitment to employee growth and diversity ensures that every team member can thrive and contribute to our mission of publishing impactful non-fiction.
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Contact Detail:

55 Redefined Ltd Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Editorial Director

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the publishing industry, especially those connected to Little, Brown and Robinson. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!

✨Tip Number 2

Show your passion for non-fiction! When you get the chance to chat with someone from the team, share your favourite titles and why they resonate with you. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your understanding of the market and what makes a great book.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in non-fiction publishing. Be ready to discuss how you would approach acquiring new titles or what innovative ideas you have for the Robinson list. This will demonstrate your proactive mindset and creativity!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our dynamic team at Little, Brown. Let’s make it happen!

We think you need these skills to ace Editorial Director

Editorial Skills
Creative Thinking
Strategic Planning
Project Management
Communication Skills
Relationship Management
Market Analysis
Attention to Detail
Commercial Judgement
Problem-Solving Skills
Team Leadership
Adaptability
Self-Motivation

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for publishing and non-fiction shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and the impact you can make at Robinson.

Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter for this specific role. Highlight your relevant experiences and how they align with our vision at Robinson. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills with what we do.

Be Creative: Don’t be afraid to showcase your creativity in your application. Whether it’s through unique ideas for potential titles or innovative approaches to publishing, we appreciate fresh perspectives that can help us stand out in the market.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re proactive and keen to join our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at 55 Redefined Ltd

✨Know Your Non-Fiction

Dive deep into the world of non-fiction, especially the genres that Robinson focuses on. Familiarise yourself with their recent titles and authors, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their unique publishing strategy.

✨Showcase Your Creativity

As an Editorial Director, creativity is key! Prepare examples of original ideas you've developed in the past. Think about how you can bring fresh perspectives to the Robinson list and be ready to share your vision during the interview.

✨Build Relationships

Strong relationships with agents and authors are crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully built and maintained professional relationships in your previous roles. Highlight any networking strategies that have worked for you.

✨Demonstrate Commercial Acumen

Understanding market trends is essential for this role. Research current non-fiction trends and be ready to discuss how you would identify new opportunities for Robinson. Show them you have a keen eye for what sells!

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