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- Tasks: Lead the editorial team and oversee high-priority book projects from start to finish.
- Company: Join Penguin Random House UK, the largest publisher, known for diverse and impactful literature.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, competitive salary up to £48,000, plus bonuses and perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that shapes the future of publishing and champions new voices.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management, excellent communication skills, and a strong understanding of trade publishing.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant office three days a week while collaborating with talented professionals.
The predicted salary is between 38400 - 67200 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Senior Managing Editor role at Penguin Random House UK
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Join to apply for the Senior Managing Editor role at Penguin Random House UK
We’re the UK’s largest publisher; made up of some 2,000 people and publishing over 1,500 books each year. Our doors are open to all kinds of talent. In a constantly evolving industry, we work hard to stretch the definition of the word publisher. Here, you’ll work with a breadth of talent who all play their part to make each of our books a success. Together, we make books for everyone because a book can change anyone.
We publish some of the world’s most thought-provoking, unforgettable, beautifully designed books – from contemporary trail-blazers to our red-spine Vintage classics. Which means that our broad family of authors ranges from world-class prize-winners to brand new, emerging talent. We know the thrill of coming across an undiscovered work of genius, of reading a classic that you’ve always meant to, of finding a book that speaks urgently to us and our times. Join our accomplished team and contribute to a legacy of excellence and innovation in publishing.
The role
The Senior Managing Editor has the role of second in command under the Managing Editorial Director and helps with the smooth running of the publishing of the Vintage division. This includes overseeing some of Vintage’s highest-priority titles in first and second formats through all aspects of the editing and publishing processes and coordinating all editorial processes of book production from copy-edit through to press. The Senior Managing Editor is, in collaboration with the Managing Editorial Director, responsible for optimising our publishing systems and processes in the pursuit of efficiency across the division.
Key responsibilities:
- Deputising for the Managing Editorial Director in their absence; contributing to progress meetings and running these meetings if the Managing Editorial Director is away
- Helping with the supervision of the work of the Managing Editorial team
- Responsibility for identifying and addressing inefficiencies in our company workflows and for driving the standardisation of editorial processes and systems
- Recruitment and management of editorial freelancers
- Developing Vintage house style in collaboration with the Managing Editorial Director.
- Working closely with Editorial, Production and Design (and to some extent with Marketing and Publicity) to see titles through from manuscript to press
- Acting as the focal point between Editorial, Production and Design on specific titles
- Communicating deadlines/critical path to the relevant imprints and chasing progress
- Recording progress and costs in the relevant systems/Biblio with Managing Editorial Assistant
- Maintaining good relationships with authors and freelancers
- Managing the editorial production process for a number of specified titles (including, but not limited to, complex non-fiction and four-colour books including cookery)
- Co-ordinating and assessing the work of freelances, ensuring their work is to the required standard of editorial excellence
- Collating manuscripts and proofs and checking proof corrections
- for specified titles
- Proofreading jackets and covers
- Proofreading marketing/publicity materials, including book-proof covers; proofreading pitch documents
- Any other tasks assigned by the Managing Editorial Director
Skills/characteristics
- Delivery-focused with experience of managing projects and processes, with strong personal organisation and time-management skills
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of people; a team player with interpersonal sensitivity
- Solutions-focused. Motivated to ensure our publishing schedule delivers to critical path, but able to deviate from carefully laid plans when necessary
- Impeccable grammar, spelling and proofreading skills and close
- Experience of overseeing titles in the manner required and managing multiple complex projects simultaneously
- Desk-editing (including collation), copy-editing and proofreading
- Initiative, independence and flexibility
- Demonstrable in-house experience overseeing a list of titles
- A strong understanding of trade publishing in general and the editorial/production process in particular
Preferred criteria:
Application instructions
Please apply with your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the right candidate for the role by 11:59pm on 20th August 2025. As part of your cover letter, we would like you to include an example in 500 words of a time you had to deviate from your carefully laid plan for a book project.
Up to £48,000 dependent on how your skills and experience align to the role, plus bonus and benefits.
While our offices across the UK are places to connect, collaborate and celebrate with colleagues, we recognise that flexibility around where you work is just as important. For this role we expect that you will be in our Embassy Gardens office 3 days a week.
Seniority level
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Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
Writing/Editing
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Industries
Book and Periodical Publishing
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Senior Managing Editor employer: Penguin Random House UK
Contact Detail:
Penguin Random House UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Managing Editor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Penguin Random House's Vintage division and its recent publications. Understanding their style and the types of titles they prioritise will help you demonstrate your alignment with their vision during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Penguin Random House, especially those in editorial roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application and interview preparation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your ability to manage complex projects and adapt to changes. Highlighting your problem-solving skills and flexibility will resonate well with the role's requirements.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends and challenges in publishing. Being knowledgeable about current issues can help you engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and show your commitment to the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Managing Editor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in managing editorial processes and projects. Focus on your achievements in previous roles, especially those that demonstrate your ability to oversee complex book projects.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your enthusiasm for the role but also clearly outline why you are the right fit. Be sure to include the required example of a time you had to deviate from a plan, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
Showcase Your Skills: Emphasise your impeccable grammar, spelling, and proofreading skills in both your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific tools or systems you have used in the editorial process to demonstrate your technical proficiency.
Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to the application instructions provided by Penguin Random House UK. Ensure you submit your application before the deadline and include all requested documents to avoid any disqualification.
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Random House UK
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
As a Senior Managing Editor, you'll be overseeing multiple projects simultaneously. Be prepared to discuss your experience in managing complex editorial processes and how you've successfully delivered projects on time.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Abilities
Effective communication is key in this role. Highlight examples where you've successfully collaborated with various teams, such as Editorial, Production, and Design, to ensure smooth project execution.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
The job requires a solutions-focused mindset. Think of instances where you had to deviate from a plan and how you handled unexpected challenges. This will show your adaptability and critical thinking skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Vintage's House Style
Understanding the specific style and standards of the Vintage division will set you apart. Research their recent publications and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to developing and maintaining their house style.
