At a Glance
- Tasks: Curate and enhance stunning visuals for print, digital, and social media platforms.
- Company: Join the New Statesman, a leading magazine shaping Britain's political and cultural landscape.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, extra days off, and access to exclusive publications.
- Other info: Hybrid working available, with excellent opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Help define the visual identity of a prestigious magazine while working with top creatives.
- Qualifications: Five years' experience in a similar role, strong visual sensibility, and proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Picture Editor, the New Statesman
We are looking for a creative, detail-orientated Picture Editor to curate and enhance photographic and illustrative content across all New Statesman platforms, including print, digital and social media.
The ideal candidate will have a strong visual sensibility that aligns with the New Statesman's editorial vision, combined with excellent organisational skills and a genuine interest in politics and culture.
This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the visual identity of one of Britain's leading weekly magazines, working with outstanding photographers, illustrators, editors and writers to produce compelling, high-quality journalism.
About the New Statesman
The New Statesman is the principal magazine of the left in Britain, reviewing politics and culture since 1913.
We publish ambitious long-form journalism alongside intelligent and informed reporting, commentary and criticism, and visually sophisticated photography and illustration.
The role
This role is ideally suited to someone with at least five years' experience commissioning and producing photography for a UK media organisation, with a strong understanding of the editorial image production process across both magazines and digital platforms.
Working closely with editors, designers and production teams, you will research and commission photographers and illustrators; source and edit imagery; negotiate and manage image rights and budgets; maintain the picture archive and asset library; and ensure all visual content meets the highest editorial and production standards.
Skills and experience
Essential
- Proven experience as a Picture Editor or in a similar visual editorial role within a publishing or media organisation.
- Experience commissioning photography for both print and digital editorial platforms.
- An excellent visual eye and strong editorial judgement, with meticulous attention to detail.
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Photoshop and In Design.
- A thorough understanding of image licensing, copyright, usage rights and picture research.
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively under tight deadlines.
- A strong network of photographers and photo agencies, ideally with international contacts.
- Consistent attention to detail in image metadata, captioning, rights management and digital asset organisation.
- An interest in politics, current affairs and culture, with an understanding of the visual language of quality journalism.
- Experience managing budgets.
Desirable
- Experience commissioning editorial illustration.
- Experience commissioning political cartoons or editorial cartoons.
- Knowledge of current trends and developments in photography and visual storytelling.
- Familiarity with digital asset management systems and editorial workflows.
- A degree in Photography, Visual Arts, Digital Media or a related discipline.
Company benefits
- 25 days' holiday (plus bank holidays)
- Additional days off for your birthday, health and well-being day and volunteering day
- Subscription to group publications and all other online content
- Access to a discounted shopping program
- Cycle to work scheme
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Enhanced company sick pay after probation
Note, this role offers hybrid working.
Applications meeting the selection criteria will be reviewed as soon as possible.
New Statesman Limited values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer.
Please inform the hiring manager if you require any reasonable adjustments so that you can fully participate in the recruitment process.
Please note, candidates must have, or be able to independently obtain, the right to live and work in the United Kingdom as we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Picture Editor employer: New Statesman
The New Statesman is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of Farringdon, London. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide opportunities for professional development alongside generous benefits such as 25 days' holiday, additional leave for personal well-being, and a hybrid working model. Join us to shape the visual identity of one of Britain's leading magazines while working with talented professionals in a supportive and dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Picture Editor
✨Dive Into the Publishing Community
Get involved with local or online publishing communities. Join forums, attend literary festivals, or participate in panel discussions. This can be a goldmine for meeting industry professionals and hearing about opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow leading publishing media channels on social media, like Twitter and Instagram. See what tactics and content formats are currently trending. This knowledge can help you tailor your discussions when you're networking or at interviews with companies like New Statesman.
✨Make Your Passion Visible
If you have a blog or a social media presence focused on books or publishing, use it! Share your thoughts on recent publications, trends in the industry, or interviews with authors. This can showcase your passion and knowledge, making you stand out as a candidate.
✨Hunt for Opportunities on Company Websites
While job boards are useful, don’t forget to go directly to company websites, like New Statesman. They often post openings there first. Plus, you might find job descriptions that give insight into what skills they really value, which can help you ace that interview.
We think you need these skills to ace Picture Editor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Style:In the publishing-media world, your writing style is your signature. Make sure your CV highlights relevant writing experiences, whether that's published articles, blog posts, or even social media content. Give us a glimpse of your voice and flair for storytelling right from the start!
Include Relevant Projects:Don’t just list your roles; include specific projects you've worked on that demonstrate your skills in editing, research, or content creation. If you've contributed to a magazine or worked on a publication, make that front and centre! It shows you've got hands-on experience in the industry, which we absolutely love.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Let’s be honest: a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity. Take the time to craft a letter that speaks to why you’re passionate about this role at New Statesman. Mention what excites you about the publishing-media industry and how your skills align with the job description. We want to see that enthusiasm!
Format Matters!:In the publishing-media sector, presentation is key. Ensure your CV and cover letter are well-organised and visually appealing. Use headings, bullet points, and a clean layout. This isn't just about aesthetics — it shows your attention to detail and professionalism, which we really appreciate at New Statesman.
How to prepare for a job interview at New Statesman
✨Know Your Stuff: Be Ready on Industry Trends
Get yourself clued up on the latest trends in the publishing-media world. Think about how digital transformation is impacting the industry, and be ready to chat about relevant examples. This shows you're not just passionate but also informed!
✨Showcase Your Creativity with a Portfolio
Bring along a portfolio that showcases your writing, editing, or design work. Since it’s a full-time role, they’ll want to see how your style fits their brand at New Statesman. Tailor your presentation to their projects for maximum impact.
✨Brush Up on Editing Techniques
Expect some technical questions about editing styles, proofing techniques, and style guides. They might ask you to solve a practical problem or provide feedback on a piece—know the tools and software commonly used in the industry, and be prepared to discuss them!
✨Express Your Passion for Storytelling
In the publishing-media field, storytelling is key. Be ready to discuss what stories inspire you and why you want to join the team at New Statesman. Let your enthusiasm shine through; they want to know you're genuinely interested in contributing to their narratives!
