At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Robinson imprint, shaping its publishing strategy and acquiring exciting non-fiction titles.
- Company: Join Little, Brown, a dynamic and award-winning UK publisher with a diverse range of titles.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, private medical insurance, and generous discounts on books.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that publishes impactful non-fiction and engages with influential authors.
- Qualifications: Creative mindset and strong communication skills; previous editorial experience not essential.
- Other info: Flexible working with a blend of in-office and remote work, plus excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Little, Brown's identity is personified by our innovative, dynamic and free-thinking people. Across our thirteen imprints, you won't find a wider range of titles anywhere in UK publishing. We pride ourselves on quality and diversity. A repeat recipient of the Publisher of the Year award, we are one of the most successful and dynamic publishers in the UK. Little, Brown is a division of Hachette, one of the largest publishing groups in the UK, with 10 publishing divisions and over 60 imprints. Everyone here is proud to be in the business of opening doors and minds.
Robinson is a Little, Brown imprint in three distinct parts: dynamic narrative non-fiction; market-leading Robinson Psychology; and practical How To and cookery. We publish books with a ‘Do, Think, Feel’ ethos. Our authors are million-copy bestsellers, specialists and academics, change-makers, storytellers and influencers.
We publish books that illuminate extraordinary life stories, lead cultural conversations, open doors to big subjects and entertain along the way. From fresh perspectives in pop culture, science and nature to powerful memoir and talking-point ideas, we’re the home of non-fiction with heart and agenda.
Robinson’s How To list offers practical, inspiring, bestselling guides to just about anything that anyone might want to do: from writing a wedding speech to learning to read music; from training your dog to managing your money. We publish books on everything from cookery, gardening, health and parenting to creative writing, property investment and do-it-yourself legal guides. Each book is written by an expert you can trust, to inspire as well as instruct.
The role involves being part of a team that publishes some of the most exciting and wide-ranging nonfiction in the UK. We are looking for a dynamic and energetic editorial director, who will be the driving force behind the Robinson list, shaping its publishing and strategy. The ideal candidate will be highly creative, proactive, solution-driven as well as an excellent communicator. An original, open-minded and highly commercial mindset is an absolute must. Previous editorial experience is not essential, though the skillset necessary to originate books and run a varied list should be demonstrated in the covering letter.
Responsibilities include:
- Setting the publishing strategy for Robinson and engendering a long-term vision that will inform the acquisition of new titles.
- Acquiring and publishing a set number of titles annually across a wide range of nonfiction genres.
- Developing original ideas, which can be published commercially.
- Forming and maintaining strong relationships with agents and authors.
- Exhibiting sound commercial judgment through the identification of new trends and opportunities in the market.
- Managing the publishing process, from commissioning and editing through to scheduling and publication.
- Close attention to detail, both editorially and financially, especially in writing first-rate copy.
- Managing the imprint’s day-to-day business, delivering set targets.
- Championing the interests of the list at in-house meetings.
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)
- Private medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- 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
- Season ticket loans
- And much more!
The role will be based at our London office, with a blend of in-office (3 days) and homeworking (2 days) per week.
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.
Editorial Director employer: Hachette UK
Contact Detail:
Hachette UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Editorial Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the publishing industry, especially those connected to Little, Brown and Robinson. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for non-fiction! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your favourite titles or authors from Robinson. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also demonstrates that you’re already engaged with their brand.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching current trends in non-fiction publishing. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to Robinson’s vision and strategy. Bring fresh ideas to the table – they’ll love your proactive approach!
✨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 team at Little, Brown. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Editorial Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for publishing shine through! We want to see how excited you are about the role and the impact you can make at Robinson. Share your thoughts on what excites you about our list and how you can contribute.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure your cover letter is tailored specifically to the Editorial Director position. Highlight your relevant experiences and skills that align with our needs. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background with what we’re looking for!
Be Creative: Don’t be afraid to showcase your creativity in your application! Whether it’s through your writing style or the ideas you present, we appreciate originality. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can bring fresh perspectives to our publishing strategy.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hachette UK
✨Know Your Non-Fiction
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in non-fiction publishing, especially within the genres Robinson covers. Be ready to discuss recent titles and how they resonate with current cultural conversations. This shows your passion and understanding of the market.
✨Showcase Your Creativity
As an Editorial Director, creativity is key! Prepare to share original ideas for potential titles or concepts that align with Robinson's ethos. Think about how you can bring fresh perspectives to the table and be ready to articulate your vision clearly.
✨Build Relationships
Demonstrate your ability to form strong relationships with authors and agents. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others. This will highlight your communication skills and team player mentality, which are crucial for this role.
✨Be Detail-Oriented
Attention to detail is vital in publishing. Prepare to discuss how you manage editorial processes and ensure high-quality outputs. Bring examples of how you've maintained standards in previous roles, whether through editing or project management.