Editorial Director (12-Month Maternity Cover) - DK LIFE

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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
• Generous pension scheme
• 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*)
• Shopping discounts
• 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. For more information, visit www.booktradeentrysupport.org

*Subject to certain criteria being met.

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

Date: 23 Dec 2024

Location: