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- Tasks: Join a year-long programme for professional development in publishing with mentoring and networking.
- Company: Creative Access partners with top publishing houses to support freelancers.
- Benefits: Gain leadership training, networking opportunities, and career guidance tailored for mid-level freelancers.
- Why this job: Unlock your potential and thrive in your publishing career while connecting with like-minded professionals.
- Qualifications: Freelancers with 3-8 years of experience in publishing and a desire to grow.
- Other info: Open to under-represented groups in the creative industries, with both online and in-person training options.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Closing date: Sunday 8th February 2026 at 11.59pm
Duration: 12 months
Start date: Monday 9th March 2026
Are you a freelancer working in publishing looking to access professional development and thrive in your career? Unlock your potential through mentoring, training and networking opportunities in this exciting programme.
Creative Access is working with 10 publishing houses to provide access to our Thrive: Development Programme for freelance professionals working within the publishing industry who are at mid-level in their careers. This partnership aims to address these issues by offering 15 funded places on Creative Access’s year-long professional development programme for mid-level talent, which has been specifically created for, and by, people who are historically under-represented in the creative sector.
About the programme
The Thrive: Development Programme is an outstanding cross-sectoral programme of leadership training, networking and support for individuals at mid-level career stage (c.3-8 years of experience) working in the creative industries. The year-long programme will commence in March 2026 and includes:
- Training in areas including developing your leadership presence, navigating a successful freelance career, confidence & presence, and understanding organisational and freelance finances
- Mentoring from a senior professional in your desired career field for 6 months
- Networking events specifically targeted at mid-level career stage and an exclusive publishing networking event with representatives from our partner publishing houses
- Free / discounted tickets from partner companies to attend conferences, training courses and cultural events
- Career guidance from the Creative Access team to help set you up for success with our own networks and opportunities via at least one 1-to-1 with our Access team.
Participants can expect to increase influence, develop new skills for career progression and have increased confidence to advocate for equal access to training, pay rises and promotions. You’ll also be able to build contacts and working relationships across sectors and take strides to achieve career objectives.
The programme is open to freelancers working across the UK, with opportunities to attend training either online or in person.
This opportunity is designed for those who:
- Are currently freelancing, and have been for at least 6 months
- Work within the publishing sector and identify as being at mid-level in their career (c.3-8 years of experience)
- Have had some experience of coordinating or managing projects
- Are interested in developing new skills to help progress their career
- Want to connect with a group of like-minded individuals with similar goals
- Currently based within the UK and able to commit to a 12-month programme
- Identify as being from an under-represented group in the creative industries. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals who identify as Black, Asian, or from other ethnically diverse backgrounds, or people of any ethnicity who belong to the following under-represented groups: disabled people, people with the characteristic of gender reassignment, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, carers and asylum seekers.
To apply
Log in to your Creative Access account or register today to apply for this opportunity. You must be a freelance professional working in any role within the publishing sector. After clicking the 'Apply' button, you will be directed to the application form. Please answer the questions and upload an up-to-date CV. Within your CV, please specify whether you have worked with any of the publishing houses listed below during your career:
- DK Books
- Simon & Schuster UK
- HarperCollins
- Canongate
- Hachette UK
- Profile Books
- Cambridge University Press & Assessment
- Sage Publishing
- Penguin Random House
- Pearson
If you require any access support while completing the application form or would prefer to submit your application in an alternative format (e.g. video or audio recording), please email programmes@creativeaccess.org.uk to discuss further.
Questions? For any queries or for further information, please contact programmes@creativeaccess.org.uk
Thrive: development programme for freelancers working in publishing employer: Hachette UK
Contact Detail:
Hachette UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Thrive: development programme for freelancers working in publishing
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, and meet-ups to connect with fellow freelancers and publishing professionals. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t be shy about reaching out! If you admire someone in the industry, drop them a message on LinkedIn or Twitter. A simple introduction can lead to mentorship opportunities or even job leads.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your work! Create an online portfolio or blog to display your projects and insights. This not only highlights your skills but also makes it easier for potential clients to find you.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources and opportunities tailored for freelancers in publishing. Don’t miss out on the Thrive programme – it could be your ticket to the next level!
We think you need these skills to ace Thrive: development programme for freelancers working in publishing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your CV Spot On: Make sure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your experience in publishing. Don’t forget to mention any work with the listed publishing houses – it’ll make you stand out!
Answer Questions Thoughtfully: When filling out the application form, take your time to answer each question thoughtfully. Show us your passion for the industry and how this programme can help you thrive.
Be Yourself: Let your personality shine through in your application. We want to know who you are beyond your professional experience, so don’t be afraid to share your unique story!
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hachette UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research the publishing houses involved in the Thrive programme. Understand their values, recent projects, and how they support freelancers. This knowledge will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the opportunity.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your freelance journey in detail. Highlight specific projects you've managed or coordinated, especially those that align with the skills the programme aims to develop. Use examples that demonstrate your leadership presence and ability to navigate a freelance career.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the mentoring process, networking opportunities, or how the programme supports under-represented groups. Asking questions shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the programme is the right fit for you.
✨Be Authentic
During the interview, let your personality shine through. Share your passion for publishing and your desire to grow within the industry. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates, so don’t be afraid to express your unique perspective and experiences.
