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- Tasks: Lead the development of illustrated book projects from concept to delivery.
- Company: Join Thames Hudson, a top global publisher in visual arts and culture.
- Benefits: 28 days holiday, profit share, discounts on books, and free museum entry.
- Why this job: Make your mark in publishing while working with creative talents.
- Qualifications: Experience in illustrated-book publishing and strong project management skills.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with a friendly, fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 37000 £ per year.
Fixed-term (maternity cover) London / Hybrid (3 days a week in the office)
Salary: £35,000–£37,000 per annum, depending on experience
Start date – mid-March
Thames Hudson is the leading global publisher of illustrated books on the visual arts, architecture, design and popular culture. This is a great opportunity for an experienced Senior Editor to join us to cover the development and management of a range of titles, with a particular focus on homes and gardens and illustrated reference.
This is a senior, hands-on editorial role, suited to someone with strong development skills, excellent judgment, and confidence managing complex illustrated projects from early concept through delivery.
The role
Reporting to the Director of Publishing and Digital, you will play a key role in developing, shaping and managing illustrated book projects, working closely with authors, designers, photographers and internal teams.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and sharpening new book ideas with authors, and preparing materials for internal publishing discussions
- Assessing proposals and new ideas, including audience, positioning and market context
- Researching content, authors and competing titles
- Determining production specifications and preparing costings and P&Ls
- Working with the legal team to prepare draft contracts
- Acting as primary editorial contact for authors during the development phase, maintaining regular and proactive communication
- Assessing and developing text submissions to a high editorial standard
- Managing and organising delivered text and image material
- Writing cover copy and advance information
You will also:
- Prepare and drive book schedules in collaboration with the Managing Editor
- Monitor project progress across editorial, design and production, proactively troubleshooting to keep schedules and budgets on track
- Contribute to key meetings, including design, development and book fair presentations
- Ensure the timely delivery of high-quality sales material to Communications, Rights and US colleagues
About you
You will have substantial experience in illustrated-book publishing, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality books to schedule and budget. You’ll bring:
- Strong editorial judgement and a highly developed visual sensibility
- A solid understanding of illustrated book production and print processes
- Full proficiency in software needed to produce illustrated books, e.g., InDesign
- Excellent organisational and project-management skills
- A strong background of working collaboratively and productively with colleagues, authors, photographers and freelancers, on a variety of publications
- A strong commercial awareness and interest across the arts and visual culture
- Heightened visual sense and outstanding attention to detail, balanced with pragmatism
- A proactive, diplomatic communication style and exemplary author care
This is a multifaceted role, requiring excellent organizational skills and the ability to juggle multiple priorities in a friendly but fast-paced working environment. You should be enthusiastic, self-motivated, self-confident and responsible, with excellent communication skills and the ability to work autonomously as well as part of a small team.
Contract note
This is a fixed-term maternity cover role, expected to run for approximately 12 months, subject to the post-holder’s return. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.
At Thames Hudson, we believe that employing a diverse workforce is essential to succeed and selection decisions are based on applicants’ experience and skills. We welcome applications from everyone, irrespective of age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, race, religion or belief.
To apply, please send your CV with a cover letter to Sophie Castle at recruitment@thameshudson.co.uk. Use the cover letter to address how you meet the requirements listed in the About you section above. The deadline for applications is 16 February 2026.
Some of the benefits of working with us
Apart from working with a highly talented and creative bunch of people, we offer:
- 28 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Profit share scheme
- Discounts off our lovely T H books and co-editions
- Generous pension contributions
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Free entry into hundreds of museums and galleries, nationwide
Senior Development Editor (Maternity Cover) employer: THAMES & HUDSON
Contact Detail:
THAMES & HUDSON Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Development Editor (Maternity Cover)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the publishing industry, especially those who work at Thames Hudson or similar companies. 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! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, be ready to discuss your past projects and how you’ve managed complex illustrated books. Bring examples of your work if possible, and highlight your editorial judgement and project management skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that fits you, don’t just wait for the application deadline. Follow up with a friendly email expressing your interest and asking any questions you might have. This shows enthusiasm and can help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team. Don’t forget to tailor your cover letter to highlight how you meet the specific requirements we’re looking for!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Development Editor (Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. We want to see your personality shine through while also demonstrating your understanding of the role!
Showcase Your Experience: In your CV, focus on showcasing your relevant experience in illustrated book publishing. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your strong editorial judgement and project management skills, so don’t hold back on the details!
Be Proactive and Engaging: When writing your application, adopt a proactive tone. Show us your enthusiasm for the role and the company. We love candidates who can communicate effectively and maintain a friendly yet professional vibe!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications better and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at THAMES & HUDSON
✨Know Your Illustrated Books
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in illustrated book publishing, especially in homes and gardens. Familiarise yourself with recent titles from Thames Hudson and competitors to show your understanding of the market during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed complex projects in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you kept everything on track, as this role requires excellent organisational skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Editorial Judgement
Think about how you would assess a new book proposal. Be prepared to discuss your approach to evaluating audience, positioning, and market context, as well as how you maintain high editorial standards throughout the development process.
✨Communicate Proactively
Since the role involves regular communication with authors and internal teams, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and diplomatically. Highlight your experience in maintaining strong relationships and how you handle feedback or conflicts.
