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- Tasks: Lead the narrative non-fiction strategy and publish exceptional books for DK RED.
- Company: Join DK, a global leader in illustrated publishing, inspiring curiosity through engaging content.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days paid holiday, remote work options, and a 60% discount on company books.
- Why this job: Shape future bestsellers and collaborate with talented teams to make a meaningful impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in commissioning and a strong network in the narrative non-fiction space required.
- Other info: We promote diversity and support flexible working arrangements.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Editorial Director (12-Month Maternity Cover) – DK LIFE
Are you a dynamic commissioner with a deep understanding of the narrative non-fiction landscape, and an enviable track record of smart, successful and profitable acquisitions? Do you have a passion for highly commercial books that captivate and inspire, an understanding of how to interpret analytics and reach the widest audience, and a network of connections that will enable you to access the best opportunities? If so, we invite you to apply for the role of Editorial Director for DK LIFE during our current director’s maternity leave.
In this 12-month fixed-term contract you will be instrumental in delivering our narrative non-fiction strategy, shaping our forward programme, and publishing exceptional books for our new DK RED imprint. Your main responsibilities will include stewarding our current slate, acquiring vibrant new propositions, establishing strong relationships with authors, agents, and other stakeholders, and overseeing the entire publishing process for the list – from acquisition to publication and beyond. Reporting to the Publishing Director, you will collaborate closely with our talented Life team and dedicated sales, marketing and PR colleagues in the UK and worldwide to ensure our titles reach readers everywhere and deliver upon or exceed expectations.
In this role, you will have the opportunity to:
- Pitch to some of the most exciting talent in the narrative non-fiction space.
- Commission and direct the publishing journey of future bestsellers.
- Develop the strategy for our growing narrative non-fiction list.
- Publish globally where rights permit.
- Champion our books, authors, and programmes – building buzz within DK and beyond.
You will also ensure that the highest editorial standards and key elements of the critical path across multiple titles are met while collaborating with colleagues in the UK and elsewhere who are contributing to the list. Your excellent communication skills and confidence in negotiations will help you position new projects optimally and secure the best deals, and your skilful scheduling and prioritisation will enable projects to proceed smoothly.
At DK LIFE, we are committed to publishing high-quality, engaging content that makes a meaningful impact. If you are ready to drive the success of our narrative non-fiction programme, we would love to hear from you.
To apply, please submit your CV along with a cover letter detailing your experience and vision for the role. As part of your cover letter please include an answer to one of the following questions:
- How would you strengthen and shape the narrative non-fiction list at DK RED?
- What opportunities do you see in the narrative non-fiction market that haven’t yet been addressed, and how would you leverage them in your acquisitions strategy?
Closing date for applications: 19th January 2025
We have a range of benefits to reflect our commitment to our people, some of which are:
- 25 days paid holiday entitlement in year one, plus bank holidays
- Volunteering policy and charity matching
- Employee assistance programme
- 60% discount on company books
- Cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership
- Flex Fridays (1pm Finish*)
- Up to 30 days remote working from abroad
And we plant a tree for every new employee to our business.
DK is committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the varied communities that read our books across the world. We encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of age, religion, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexuality or social background. DK is proud to announce that we have adopted The Halo Code.
DK is a member of the disability confident scheme. We guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy/ies.
DK supports flexible working and has introduced a new ‘smart-working’ policy with a hybrid approach of working weekly from home and in DK’s office.
The Book Trade Charity offers financial support to people looking to enter the book trade, but who may struggle to afford the costs of attending interviews or undertaking internships.
About our Company:
We believe in the power of discovery. That’s why we create books for everyone that explore ideas and nurture curiosity about the world we live in. From first words to the Big Bang, from the wonders of nature to city adventures, you will find expert knowledge, hours of fun and endless inspiration in the pages of our books.
We are the world’s leading illustrated publisher and a member of the Penguin Random House division of Bertelsmann, creating cutting-edge design and stunning visual books for the whole family. We are passionate about inspiring curiosity and bring people to books through their thirst for knowledge. With a global book loving community of over 800 colleagues in the UK, US, Germany, India, China, Spain and Australia, we produce books in over 100 countries and over 60 languages. Find out more on dk.com.
Company: Dorling Kindersley Limited
Country: United Kingdom
State/Region: London
City: London
Postal Code: SW1V 2SA
Job ID: 276437
Location:
London, LND, GB, SW1V 2SA
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Editorial Director (12-Month Maternity Cover) - DK LIFE employer: Penguin Random House
Contact Detail:
Penguin Random House Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Editorial Director (12-Month Maternity Cover) - DK LIFE
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the narrative non-fiction space. Attend industry events, webinars, and book fairs to connect with authors, agents, and other editorial directors. Building these relationships can give you insights into upcoming trends and opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest market trends and analytics in narrative non-fiction. Subscribe to industry newsletters, follow relevant blogs, and engage with thought leaders on social media to understand what captivates readers and how to leverage that in your acquisitions strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for DK RED's narrative non-fiction list during interviews. Think about innovative ideas for titles, potential authors, and how you would approach marketing and distribution to maximize reach and impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarize yourself with DK's existing catalogue and their editorial standards. Understanding their current offerings will help you identify gaps in the market and propose compelling new acquisitions that align with their brand and mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Editorial Director (12-Month Maternity Cover) - DK LIFE
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customize your cover letter specifically for the Editorial Director position at DK LIFE. Highlight your experience in narrative non-fiction and how it aligns with their vision for the DK RED imprint.
Answer the Key Questions: In your cover letter, address one of the provided questions directly. This is your chance to showcase your strategic thinking and understanding of the narrative non-fiction market.
Showcase Your Track Record: Include specific examples of successful acquisitions or projects you've led in the past. Demonstrating a proven track record will strengthen your application and show that you can deliver results.
Highlight Collaboration Skills: Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively with various teams, such as sales, marketing, and PR. DK LIFE values teamwork, so showcasing your interpersonal skills will be beneficial.
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Random House
✨Showcase Your Acquisitions Success
Be prepared to discuss your track record of successful acquisitions in the narrative non-fiction space. Highlight specific examples where your decisions led to profitable outcomes, and how you identified and capitalized on market trends.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Analytics
Since the role requires interpreting analytics to reach a wider audience, come equipped with insights on how you've used data to inform your publishing strategies. Discuss any tools or methodologies you’ve employed to analyze market performance.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Emphasize your ability to establish strong relationships with authors, agents, and other stakeholders. Share anecdotes that illustrate your communication skills and how you've successfully navigated negotiations in the past.
✨Present Your Vision for DK RED
Prepare to answer the question about strengthening the narrative non-fiction list at DK RED. Articulate your vision clearly, including potential new themes or topics you believe could resonate with readers, and how you would approach acquiring these titles.
