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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Spot and attract new talent in science fiction and fantasy publishing.
- Company: Join Zaffre, a vibrant imprint of Bonnier Books UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health insurance, flexible working, and 28 days holiday.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on exciting new titles and authors.
- Qualifications: Passionate about sci-fi/fantasy with at least two years in publishing.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 42000 ÂŁ per year.
Reports to: Publishing Director, Zaffre
Location: 5th Floor, HYLO, 105 Bunhill Row, London, EC1Y 8LZ
Working pattern: Hybrid - minimum of two days per week in the office; up to three days per week working from home
Department: Editorial
Imprint: Zaffre
Salary: ÂŁ35,000 - ÂŁ38,000 depending on experience
General Summary
Zaffre Fiction, the home of bestselling and award-winning commercial fiction at Bonnier Books UK, is looking for a passionate, highly organised and proactive science fiction and fantasy commissioning editor to work alongside the Publishing Director to spot, attract and seek out new and existing talent as well as deliver exceptional publishing.
The successful candidate will make a significant contribution to the development of the science fiction and fantasy list at this key stage of its growth, nurturing and confidently publishing our existing authors, acquiring stand-out titles, developing trend‑led IP and contributing towards making Zaffre a destination imprint.
This is a perfect next step for an experienced, hard‑working assistant editor, editor or commissioning editor with a demonstrable passion for commercial science fiction and fantasy as well as a network of agents, authors and key industry figures. They would be a collaborative team player and combine a keen eye for detail with high editorial standards along with plenty of ideas, enthusiasm and energy. They will enjoy working closely editorially with authors, leading the publishing of their books and inspiring the broader team.
Key responsibilities
- Working with the Publishing Director on the publication of existing Zaffre authors – from author care and administrative duties to editing, project‑managing and desk‑editing – including taking sole responsibility for a number of titles.
- Commissioning 6-8 books a year with a particular focus on trend‑leading science fiction and fantasy titles with broad appeal.
- Add to an existing network of authors, agents and scouts, working to make Zaffre a destination imprint.
- Being part of a closely‑knit team and contributing to list strategy.
- Managing relationships with other departments, including sales, marketing, publicity, rights, design and production.
Qualifications and Experience
- You will be a passionate reader of science fiction and fantasy with exceptional taste and strong commercial instinct.
- You will have at least two years’ experience within a trade publishing team.
- Excellent project management skills, ideally with experience of desk editing and successfully steering books from acquisition to publication.
- Self‑motivated with the ability to manage and prioritise a varied workload to meet multiple deadlines.
- Exemplary attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- An interest in learning and developing skills within a fast‑paced, energetic and outward‑looking department.
- A keen understanding of the print and digital markets.
Company Benefits
- Private health insurance
- Holiday purchase scheme
- Contributory pension scheme
- 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Lively social committee hosting regular events
- Group Life cover - including 24-hour GP service
- Company‑funded gym membership for all trade staff
- Comprehensive staff training and mentorship programmes
- Flexible working and flexible hours from day one of employment
- Additional holiday allowance accrued for long service – and a full bonus week of holiday to celebrate your 10th year at BBUK
- Enhanced family leave - with equal six months’ paid leave for all new parents
- Employee assistance programme available to all employees and their families
- Dedicated volunteering hours each year to support charities promoting literacy and reading for pleasure
- Cycle to work scheme with bike storage and changing facilities on‑site at our London HQ
- Wellbeing programme and daily benefits such as fresh fruit and porridge in the office
If you are interested in this role, please apply via our website. We look forward to hearing from you.
Commissioning Editor (Science Fiction and Fantasy), Zaffre employer: Bonnier Books UK group
Contact Detail:
Bonnier Books UK group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commissioning Editor (Science Fiction and Fantasy), Zaffre
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and engage with authors and agents on social media. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for science fiction and fantasy! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your favourite reads and what excites you about the genre. Your enthusiasm will shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Zaffre's current authors and their works. Being knowledgeable about their list will show you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their growth.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Zaffre team.
We think you need these skills to ace Commissioning Editor (Science Fiction and Fantasy), Zaffre
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your love for science fiction and fantasy shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for the genre and how it influences your work. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your passion.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Commissioning Editor. Highlight your experience in trade publishing and any specific projects you've managed. We’re looking for someone who can demonstrate their editorial skills and project management prowess.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bonnier Books UK group
✨Know Your Genre Inside Out
As a Commissioning Editor for Science Fiction and Fantasy, it's crucial to have a deep understanding of the genre. Brush up on current trends, popular authors, and emerging voices in the field. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate your vision for Zaffre's list.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed projects in the past. Highlight your experience with desk editing and steering books from acquisition to publication. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of the role effectively.
✨Network Like a Pro
Since building relationships is key in this role, come ready to talk about your existing network of authors, agents, and industry figures. Share how you plan to expand this network to make Zaffre a destination imprint. This shows your proactive approach and commitment to the role.
✨Bring Ideas to the Table
Zaffre is looking for someone with plenty of ideas and enthusiasm. Prepare to discuss potential titles or concepts that excite you within the science fiction and fantasy genres. This will showcase your creativity and passion, making you a standout candidate.
