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- Tasks: Join us as an Editor, managing exciting non-fiction projects from manuscript to finished book.
- Company: Octopus Publishing Group, part of Hachette, inspires readers with diverse titles.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28+ annual leave days, flexible working, and discounts on books!
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that values your input and fosters growth.
- Qualifications: Proven editorial experience and fluency in InDesign are essential.
- Other info: Work in a hybrid model at our London office with a vibrant company culture.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Who we are and what we do
Octopus publish books for everyone. We love to enlighten, nourish, entertain and most of all inspire readers and listeners everywhere.
Octopus is a division of Hachette, one of the largest publishing groups in the UK, with 11 publishing divisions and over 60 imprints. Everyone here is proud to be in the business of opening doors and minds.
What you’ll be doing
The role will involve working on a wide range of non-fiction illustrated and mono titles, in subject areas including food, drink, gardening, health, MBS, craft, design, sport, general reference and popular science.
The successful candidate will work directly with the commissioning editors and authors, overseeing schedules and managing all stages of the editorial process under supervision, from manuscript stage to finished books.
You will be able to produce high-quality, accurate work both independently and as part of a team.
Who we are looking for
Octopus Publishing Group are looking for an enthusiastic and conscientious Editor to work full-time on a fixed-term 15-month contract.
The ideal candidate will have proven editorial experience, and be familiar with illustrated 4-colour non-fiction publishing. Experience in managing your own projects would be preferable. Fluency in using InDesign is essential.
This role would suit an assistant editor or someone with extensive editorial assistant experience who has started to manage their own projects and who is looking to take the next step.
What we offer
Our staff are our greatest asset, and our benefits reflect this:
- 28 annual leave days per year, increases to 29 days after 2 years’ service and goes up to 30 days after 5 years’ (+ bank holidays)
- Generous pension schemes
- Rent deposit loans
- 2 community days per year
- Summer hours (finishing at 1pm on Fridays during the summer months)
- Retail discounts through Hachette rewards
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Eye care vouchers
- Wide-ranging training library
- Development programmes (including mentoring)
- Up to 70% off book purchases
- A charity bookshelf
- 12 Staff-led employee networks that are voluntary, including Gender Balance, Thrive, Pride, All Together, Wellbeing and religious networks
- Season ticket loans
- And much more!
The role will be based at our London office, Carmelite House, with a blend of in-office (3 days) and homeworking (2 days) per week.
Our commitment
Hachette employs people on the basis of their abilities. We aim to attract and develop talent from a base as broad as the world of readers we want to reach, with a wide and representative range of age, faith, disability, race, gender, sexuality and socio-economic, regional and cultural backgrounds.
If you are shortlisted and need us to make any adjustments to help you attend for interview, please let us know.
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Editor (15 month FTC) employer: Hachette UK
Contact Detail:
Hachette UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Editor (15 month FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with Octopus Publishing's catalog. Understanding their range of non-fiction illustrated titles will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your project management skills by preparing examples of past editorial projects you've managed. Be ready to discuss how you handled challenges and ensured high-quality outcomes.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your InDesign skills. Since fluency in this software is essential, consider creating a sample layout or two that demonstrates your proficiency and creativity.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the publishing industry, especially those who have worked at Hachette or similar companies. They can provide valuable insights and may even refer you for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Editor (15 month FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Editor position at Octopus. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in non-fiction publishing and project management.
Showcase Your Editorial Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your proven editorial experience, particularly with illustrated non-fiction titles. Provide specific examples of projects you've managed and the impact of your work.
Highlight Technical Skills: Fluency in InDesign is essential for this role. Make sure to mention your proficiency with this software and any other relevant tools you are familiar with in your application.
Personalize Your Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention why you want to work at Octopus Publishing Group and how your values align with theirs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hachette UK
✨Show Your Passion for Publishing
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the publishing industry and specifically for non-fiction illustrated titles. Share examples of books or projects that inspire you and how they align with Octopus's mission to enlighten and entertain.
✨Demonstrate Your Editorial Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous editorial roles in detail. Highlight specific projects you've managed, especially those involving illustrated non-fiction, and explain how you contributed to their success.
✨Familiarize Yourself with InDesign
Since fluency in InDesign is essential for this role, make sure you can confidently discuss your experience with the software. Consider bringing a portfolio or examples of your work that showcase your skills in using InDesign effectively.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview about the editorial process at Octopus, the types of projects you might work on, and the team dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
