At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage editorial projects from copyedit to finished product in children's fiction.
- Company: Join Simon & Schuster, a leading name in publishing with a commitment to diversity.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £30,000 and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on inclusion and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of creating magical stories for children and young adults.
- Qualifications: Experience in copyediting, proofreading, and a passion for children's literature.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 € per year.
Salary: Starting from £30,000
Closing date: 20/05/2026
The Job Profile
Reporting into the Senior Editorial Manager, the Desk Editor has an important organisational role within the children’s fiction and Gallery Kids/YA Editorial teams, with responsibility for project managing timely development of titles according to the Critical Path, to the highest editorial standards, with a focus on text and development of interiors. The Desk Editor will steer titles through copy-editing, typesetting and proofreading processes, from final manuscript to finished book. The role will support the Senior Editorial Manager in the management of freelance editors and by undertaking in-house copyediting and proofreading, as well as in the maintenance of key editorial systems and schedules. The role will involve close collaboration with authors, editors and colleagues across departments to ensure titles are delivered to schedule and budget.
The Job Role
This role is responsible for managing editorial projects from copyedit to finished product, ensuring titles are delivered on time and within budget. The successful candidate will support scheduling and project tracking, work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure title readiness, and undertake copyediting, proofreading and occasional line editing to a high standard. The role also includes managing freelancers, liaising with authors and external contributors, reviewing proofs and proof corrections, and maintaining editorial accuracy and rigour throughout the publishing process.
The Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will be highly organised, proactive and detail-oriented, with excellent project-management and communication skills. They will have strong editorial experience, particularly in copyediting and proofreading, with a keen understanding of grammar, style and authorial voice, alongside a genuine enthusiasm for children’s and YA publishing. Applicants should have substantial in-house experience working across straight text, graphic novels and illustrated fiction, including collating proofs, briefing freelancers and liaising directly with authors and illustrators while managing tight schedules. Experience in children’s fiction or YA publishing is essential, and formal training in copyediting and proofreading would be an advantage.
How to Apply
Please apply by attaching your CV and cover letter. Unfortunately, Simon & Schuster UK cannot accept applications from candidates without a legal right to work in the UK or who require visa sponsorship. Right to work checks are carried out on candidates who make it to offer stage.
Equal Opportunities
Simon & Schuster UK is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity and gender expression. At Simon & Schuster UK, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all.
Desk Editor, Children’s Fiction, Simon & Schuster in London employer: Bookmachine
Simon & Schuster UK is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration within the children's fiction sector. Employees benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises professional growth, with opportunities to engage closely with authors and cross-functional teams, ensuring a rewarding experience in the dynamic world of publishing.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Desk Editor, Children’s Fiction, Simon & Schuster in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the publishing industry, especially those who work at Simon & Schuster. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you have a portfolio of your editing work, make sure to highlight it during interviews. Bring examples that showcase your attention to detail and project management prowess.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching Simon & Schuster’s recent titles and trends in children’s fiction. Being knowledgeable about their work will impress them and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a simple gesture that can keep you top of mind as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Desk Editor, Children’s Fiction, Simon & Schuster in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Desk Editor role. Highlight your editorial experience, especially in children’s fiction and YA publishing. We want to see how your skills match what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for children’s literature and your project management skills. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit for our team at Simon & Schuster.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail:As a Desk Editor, attention to detail is key. Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. We appreciate candidates who take the time to proofread their work before sending it our way!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bookmachine
✨Know Your Editorial Stuff
Brush up on your copyediting and proofreading skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed editorial projects, especially in children's fiction or YA publishing. This will show that you understand the nuances of the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
Prepare to talk about your project management experience. Have a few examples ready where you successfully managed tight schedules and collaborated with cross-functional teams. Highlight any tools or systems you’ve used to keep everything on track, as this is crucial for the Desk Editor role.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Children's Fiction
Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for children's and YA publishing during the interview. Share your favourite titles or authors in this genre and explain why they resonate with you. This personal touch can help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares about the work.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the editorial process at Simon & Schuster, the team dynamics, or upcoming projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
