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- Tasks: Manage editorial projects from copyedit to finished product for children's fiction.
- Company: Join Simon & Schuster UK, a leader in children's and YA publishing.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £30,000 with equal opportunity workplace culture.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of children's literature while collaborating with creative minds.
- Qualifications: Strong editorial experience in copyediting and proofreading, especially in children's fiction.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.
Reporting into the Senior Editorial Manager, the Desk Editor has an important organisational role within the children’s fiction and Gallery Kids/YA Editorial teams, with responsibility for project managing timely development of titles according to the Critical Path, to the highest editorial standards, with a focus on text and development of interiors. The Desk Editor will steer titles through copy-editing, typesetting and proofreading processes, from final manuscript to finished book.
The role will support the Senior Editorial Manager in the management of freelance editors and by undertaking in-house copyediting and proofreading, as well as in the maintenance of key editorial systems and schedules. The role will involve close collaboration with authors, editors and colleagues across departments to ensure titles are delivered to schedule and budget.
This role is responsible for managing editorial projects from copyedit to finished product, ensuring titles are delivered on time and within budget. The successful candidate will support scheduling and project tracking, work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure title readiness, and undertake copyediting, proofreading and occasional line editing to a high standard. The role also includes managing freelancers, liaising with authors and external contributors, reviewing proofs and proof corrections, and maintaining editorial accuracy and rigour throughout the publishing process.
The ideal candidate will be highly organised, proactive and detail-oriented, with excellent project-management and communication skills. They will have strong editorial experience, particularly in copyediting and proofreading, with a keen understanding of grammar, style and authorial voice, alongside a genuine enthusiasm for children’s and YA publishing. Applicants should have substantial in-house experience working across straight text, graphic novels and illustrated fiction, including collating proofs, briefing freelancers and liaising directly with authors and illustrators while managing tight schedules. Experience in children’s fiction or YA publishing is essential, and formal training in copyediting and proofreading would be an advantage.
Starting from £30,000
Simon & Schuster UK is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity and gender expression. At Simon & Schuster UK, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all.
Desk Editor, Children's Fiction employer: Simon & Schuster, Inc.
Contact Detail:
Simon & Schuster, Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Desk Editor, Children's Fiction
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the publishing industry, especially those who work in children's fiction. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your editorial work, including any copyediting or proofreading projects you've tackled. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table, especially in managing projects from manuscript to finished book.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email. Express your enthusiasm for the position and mention how your experience aligns with the job description. A little initiative goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay organised! Use project management tools to keep track of your applications and networking efforts. This will help you stay on top of deadlines and follow-ups, ensuring you don’t miss out on any opportunities in the fast-paced world of children's publishing.
We think you need these skills to ace Desk Editor, Children's Fiction
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in children's fiction and YA publishing. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Desk Editor, so don’t hold back on showcasing your editorial prowess!
Show Off Your Organisational Skills: As a Desk Editor, being organised is key! In your application, give us examples of how you've managed projects or schedules in the past. We love seeing candidates who can juggle multiple tasks while keeping everything on track.
Highlight Your Editorial Experience: We’re looking for someone with strong copyediting and proofreading skills. Be sure to mention any relevant experience you have, especially if it involves working with authors and freelancers. This will help us see your fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the Desk Editor position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Simon & Schuster, Inc.
✨Know Your Editorial Stuff
Brush up on your copyediting and proofreading skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed editorial projects, especially in children's fiction or YA publishing. This will show that you understand the nuances of the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Prepare to talk about your project management experience. Have a few examples ready where you successfully managed tight schedules and collaborated with cross-functional teams. Highlight any tools or systems you’ve used to keep everything on track, as this is crucial for the Desk Editor role.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Children's Fiction
Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for children's and YA publishing during the interview. Share your favourite titles or authors in this genre and explain why they resonate with you. This personal touch can help you connect with the interviewers and show that you’re genuinely invested in the field.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company’s editorial processes or upcoming projects. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to demonstrate your understanding of the publishing landscape. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.