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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.
Should we bother to maintain a distinction between ‘uninterested’ and ‘disinterested’? Are split infinitives really a problem? And what on earth is an ‘Oxford comma’ anyway? Whether or not you already have strong views on such questions, if they have piqued your interest you might be the person we are after, since Penguin Press are looking for a new Assistant Editorial Manager to join their Managing Editorial team.
About Penguin Press
Penguin Press is one of the most forward-thinking and celebrated publishing houses in the industry. In our flagship non-fiction imprints Allen Lane, Pelican and Particular Books we publish a wide range of bestselling non-fiction titles in science, politics, history, culture, psychology and poetry, as well as beautiful bespoke colour books. Penguin Press also publish and maintain the iconic Penguin Classics and Modern Classics imprints.
The role
In this small but mighty team of four, the Assistant Editorial Manager will soon be responsible for managing the editorial processes – from manuscript to printed book – of a number of titles originating within Penguin Press; initially, the focus will largely be on those books that we publish that have been originated elsewhere (‘takeovers’). Getting to grips with the complexities of the whole publishing process will be the first task.
Key responsibilities
- Working with commissioning editors and the Production Department to implement schedules to help deliver the various publishing programmes.
- Advising and steering schedules and deadlines (with support if required) to ensure that the highest editorial standards are met on schedule and within budget.
- Participating in pre-production progress meetings, updating and chasing progress with key stakeholders.
- Commissioning and appraising freelance copy-editors and proofreaders as necessary.
- Copy-editing text when necessary.
- Proofreading and checking revised proofs when necessary.
- Checking illustrative matter, jackets and covers.
What you’ll bring
This role will suit someone who is genuinely passionate about the English language and who has ideally had some experience copy-editing and proofreading.
Essential criteria
- Impeccable grammar and spelling
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work in a fast-paced and demanding environment, while juggling several projects at a time
- Excellent communication skills to manage various stakeholders
Preferred criteria
- Some copy-editing and proofreading experience
- Familiarity with the cost implications of corrections and changes
- Ability to work autonomously
- Ability to balance editorial integrity and commercial pragmatism
- Proactivity and confidence in suggesting, for example, improvements to workflow
Application instructions
Please apply with your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the right candidate for the role by 11:59pm on Sunday 29 th June . Please ensure you include a cover letter, as it is a crucial part of our assessment process. The cover letter offers an opportunity to show how your experience and interests align with the role requirements. Typically, we expect the cover letter to be no more than one or two pages in length. Please note we are looking for someone to join the team as soon as possible, but we are also happy to accommodate a reasonable notice period for the right candidate.
