Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Spot and attract new talent in science fiction and fantasy publishing.
- Company: Join Zaffre, a dynamic imprint of Bonnier Books UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health insurance, holiday purchase scheme, and 28 days holiday.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on bestselling authors and exciting new titles.
- Qualifications: Two years' experience in trade publishing and a passion for sci-fi and fantasy.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with opportunities for growth and creativity.
The predicted salary is between 29000 - 38000 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
Commissioning Editor (Science Fiction and Fantasy), Zaffre in London 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 in London
✨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 job applications alone 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 books and authors. Let them see your enthusiasm and knowledge in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Zaffre and its authors. Know their recent publications and trends in the genre. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
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 family and contributing to their exciting journey in the publishing world.
We think you need these skills to ace Commissioning Editor (Science Fiction and Fantasy), Zaffre in London
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. We appreciate well-structured writing that showcases your communication skills. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for our team at Zaffre.
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. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at StudySmarter!
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. Be ready to discuss your favourite books and how they influence your editorial vision.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
This role requires excellent project management abilities. Prepare examples from your past experience where you successfully managed a book from acquisition to publication. Highlight how you prioritised tasks and met deadlines while maintaining high editorial standards.
✨Demonstrate Your Networking Savvy
Zaffre is looking for someone who can expand their network of authors and agents. Come prepared with ideas on how you would approach building these relationships. Mention any relevant contacts you already have in the industry and how you plan to leverage them.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
This position involves working closely with various departments. Think of examples that showcase your teamwork skills and how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Emphasise your ability to communicate effectively and inspire those around you.
