At a Glance
- Tasks: Create innovative designs for illustrated fiction books and collaborate with illustrators.
- Company: Join a leading publishing house with a passion for children's literature.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous holiday, private healthcare, and wellness support.
- Other info: Access to unlimited training, employee networks, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make your mark in the world of children's books while developing your design skills.
- Qualifications: Strong portfolio, proficiency in InDesign and Photoshop, and a love for illustration.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Designer role supports the Art Director for Illustrated Fiction books in the creation and development of high quality and innovative design for our fiction books (age range 5+ years - young adult). This includes mostly black and white inside page design and the occasional colour cover design.
Key Tasks And Accountabilities
- To prepare layouts and visuals for presentation and final print, approved by Art Director of illustrated fiction.
- To ensure all work in progress is backed up on a daily basis and that all digital files are complete.
- Researching illustrators and briefing B&W illustration for integrated books/liaise with and build relationships with illustrators and agents.
- Develop an awareness and understanding of trends in the marketplace and be expected to put that knowledge into practice when designing their own books.
- Manage multiple design projects and deliver within agreed timeframes.
- Working alongside the Editorial, Marketing, and Sales teams the Designer will be required to deliver any additional assets as and when required.
- General administrative duties such as processing invoices.
Skills required
- A portfolio of work that showcases creativity and the ability to communicate ideas in a visual manner.
- Good knowledge of working with InDesign and Photoshop.
- Ability to work to deadlines.
- A proactive, self-motivating and positive attitude with the ability to adapt to the business needs as required.
- Ability to respond to and take on board constructive criticism in a professional manner.
- A keen interest and passion for children’s books and illustration.
- Proven experience working with integrated children’s fiction books.
Benefits
- Hybrid working model (3 days in the office).
- 28 days holiday plus bank holidays (option to buy and sell holiday days).
- Enhanced pay for maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave.
- Private healthcare cover and life assurance.
- Summer Hours.
- Free access to HeadSpace, employee assistance programme (24 hour helpline), mental health first aiders, and a wellbeing portal.
- Season ticket loans (from day 1 for entry level) and cycle to work scheme.
- Relocation Rent Support Loan.
- Employee networks: HC All In (open forum), Elevate (for ethnic minority colleagues), HarperParents, Menopause at Work, Pride at HC, Social Mobility Network and Neurodiversity at Work.
- Unlimited training on our Learning and Development portal, management courses (up to MA level) and mentoring programmes.
- Virtual GP and eyecare vouchers.
- Gym membership discount.
- Onsite physiotherapy (London only).
- Charitable donation matching and 2 volunteering days.
- We're a certified Carbon Neutral company.
- Free e-books and audiobooks, digital newspaper subscriptions and discounts on books.
- Subsidised canteen and retail discounts.
- Onsite prayer room.
Designer, HCCB employer: HarperCollins Publishers UK
Contact Detail:
HarperCollins Publishers UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Designer, HCCB
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in tip-top shape! Make sure it showcases your creativity and ability to communicate ideas visually. Highlight any projects that relate to children's books or illustration, as this will resonate with the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to illustrators and agents you admire. Building relationships can open doors and give you insights into the industry that could set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay on top of trends! Research what's hot in the market for children's fiction and be ready to discuss how you can incorporate those trends into your designs. This shows you're proactive and in tune with the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Designer, HCCB
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Creativity: Make sure your portfolio is up to date and highlights your best work. We want to see how you communicate ideas visually, so include a variety of projects that demonstrate your creativity and design skills.
Tailor Your Application: When applying, take a moment to tailor your application to the Designer role. Mention your experience with children's fiction books and how you can contribute to our innovative designs. It shows us you're genuinely interested!
Be Professional and Open to Feedback: We value a proactive attitude and the ability to take constructive criticism. In your application, share examples of how you've adapted your designs based on feedback in the past. It’ll show us you’re ready for collaboration!
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. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at HarperCollins Publishers UK
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your creativity and design skills. Include a variety of projects, especially those related to children's fiction, as this will demonstrate your understanding of the target audience.
✨Know Your Tools
Brush up on your InDesign and Photoshop skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you used these tools effectively, as this will show your technical proficiency and ability to meet deadlines.
✨Research Trends
Stay updated on current trends in children's literature and illustration. During the interview, share your insights on what’s popular and how you can incorporate these trends into your designs, showing that you’re proactive and aware of the market.
✨Be Open to Feedback
Prepare to discuss how you handle constructive criticism. Share examples of how you've adapted your designs based on feedback in the past, as this will highlight your collaborative spirit and willingness to grow.