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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Editor, shaping groundbreaking non-fiction and collaborating with renowned authors.
- Company: Penguin Press is a leader in innovative non-fiction, known for high editorial and design standards.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and a vibrant office culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that champions impactful books and fosters strong author relationships.
- Qualifications: Bring your editorial experience, creativity, and passion for literature to the table.
- Other info: Apply by 1st September with a unique take on non-fiction books that inspire change.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 46000 £ per year.
About the team
Penguin Press is home to serious and groundbreaking non-fiction in hardback and paperback, plus the extended family of classic fiction, non-fiction and poetry. We have established a reputation for books that bring new ideas to readers and represent the best in editorial and design standards.
The role
We are looking to hire two creative, dynamic and rigorous Editors who will work alongside two Publishing Directors. The successful candidates will work with authors including Hilton Als, Harriet Baker, Helen Castor, Shon Faye, Lucy Jones, Owen Jones, Robin Wall Kimmerer, Naomi Klein, Michael Lewis, James Rebanks, Bernie Sanders, Gary Stevenson, Greta Thunberg and Isabel Wilkerson. They will also have the opportunity to commission authors independently for publication in the Allen Lane, Penguin, Pelican and Particular Books imprints.
Key responsibilities:
- Undertaking structural and line edits
- Writing excellent original copy for Title Information sheets, jackets, catalogues and so forth
- Managing the internal book process from acquisition to publication
- Actively promoting and championing books in-house
- Building relationships with authors and agents
- Developing a distinctive, personal publishing style
- Evaluating proposals and developing ideas for new books in conjunction with the Publishing Directors
What you’ll bring
A self-starter full of cultural awareness and curiosity, you will collaborate well with the team around you to drive projects forward. You will be able to form strong and trusted working relationships, and pitch effectively, persuading others to come on board with your ideas. You will have demonstrable editorial experience, blending technical proficiency with creativity on the page.
Application instructions
If you’re up for the challenge, please apply with a CV and covering letter, telling us in no more than 500 words about a non-fiction book that changed your mind, and a non-fiction book which you believe Penguin Press could – or should – have published, and why.Please submit your application by the end of the day on Monday 1st September.
Salary
£35,000 to £40,000, depending on how your skills and experience align to the role, plus bonus and benefits.
Hybrid working
While our offices across the UK are places to connect, collaborate and celebrate with colleagues, we recognise that flexibility around where you work is just as important. For this role, we expect you to come into our Embassy Gardens office for 2-3 days per week.
Company: The Random House Group Limited | Job ID: 281486
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Editor, Penguin Press employer: Bertelsmann
Contact Detail:
Bertelsmann Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Editor, Penguin Press
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the authors and books published by Penguin Press. Understanding their style and themes will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your passion for their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the publishing industry, especially those who have experience with non-fiction editing. Attend literary events, workshops, or webinars to build connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your editorial process and how you approach structural and line edits. Be ready to share examples of your previous work that showcase your ability to blend creativity with technical proficiency.
✨Tip Number 4
Think about innovative ideas for new book proposals that align with Penguin Press's mission. Presenting fresh concepts during your interview can set you apart and show your initiative and understanding of the market.
We think you need these skills to ace Editor, Penguin Press
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and skills required for the Editor position at Penguin Press. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, focus on the non-fiction book that changed your mind and the one you believe Penguin Press should have published. Be concise and persuasive, ensuring you stay within the 500-word limit while showcasing your editorial insight and passion for literature.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When updating your CV, emphasise your editorial experience, including any structural and line editing work you've done. Mention specific projects or authors you've worked with to demonstrate your ability to manage the book process effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread both your CV and cover letter. Check for grammatical errors, clarity, and overall presentation. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an editorial role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bertelsmann
✨Know Your Authors
Familiarise yourself with the authors you might be working with, such as Hilton Als and Naomi Klein. Being able to discuss their works and styles will show your genuine interest in the role and the publishing house.
✨Showcase Your Editorial Skills
Prepare examples of your previous editorial work that highlight your ability to blend technical proficiency with creativity. Be ready to discuss how you've managed the book process from acquisition to publication.
✨Pitch Your Ideas
Think about a non-fiction book you believe Penguin Press should have published and prepare a compelling pitch for it. This will demonstrate your understanding of their catalogue and your ability to evaluate proposals.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Awareness
Be prepared to discuss current cultural trends and how they influence publishing. Showing that you are a self-starter with curiosity will resonate well with the team at Penguin Press.
