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- Tasks: Spot and acquire standout science fiction and fantasy titles while nurturing existing authors.
- Company: Join Zaffre, a vibrant imprint of Bonnier Books UK, known for bestselling authors.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health insurance, flexible working, and 28 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the exciting world of commercial fiction and grow your career.
- Qualifications: Passionate about sci-fi and fantasy with at least two years in trade publishing.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with excellent training and mentorship opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 38000 £ per year.
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 25th February 2026
Salary: £35,000 - £38,000 depending on experience
Location: London
Reports to: Publishing Director, Zaffre
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
Spot the next big science fiction and fantasy authors, acquiring standout titles and bringing ambitious commercial fiction to market. 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.
- 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.
- 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. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented in the creative industries. Please make sure that you state in your application that you found this role via Creative Access.
Commissioning editor (science fiction and fantasy), Zaffre employer: Hachette UK
Contact Detail:
Hachette UK 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. Building relationships can open doors that 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 titles and what excites you about the genre. Your enthusiasm will shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Zaffre's recent publications and trends in the genre. Being knowledgeable about their authors and titles will impress them and show you're genuinely interested.
✨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! Share your favourite authors or books and explain why they inspire you. We want to see that enthusiasm for the genre!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Commissioning Editor. Highlight relevant experience in trade publishing, especially any work with science fiction and fantasy titles. We’re looking for someone who knows the market inside out!
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 skills and experience at a glance.
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 hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hachette UK
✨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. Familiarise yourself with current trends, popular authors, and emerging voices. Be ready to discuss your favourite titles and why they resonate with you during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Editorial Experience
Highlight your previous experience in trade publishing, especially any roles where you've managed projects from acquisition to publication. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully edited or commissioned titles, and be ready to discuss the impact of your work on the authors and the overall list.
✨Demonstrate Your Networking Skills
Zaffre is looking for someone who can expand their network of authors and agents. Be prepared to talk about your connections within the industry and how you plan to leverage them to attract new talent. Mention any relevant relationships you've built and how they could benefit Zaffre.
✨Bring Ideas to the Table
Come to the interview with fresh ideas for potential titles or authors that would fit well within Zaffre's science fiction and fantasy list. This shows your enthusiasm and proactive approach. Think about what makes a book stand out in today's market and how you can contribute to making Zaffre a destination imprint.
