Assistant Editor, Macmillan Children’s Books

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Assistant Editor to join the MCB picture book team, working on books for children aged three to seven.

As the Assistant Editor, you will play a critical role in supporting the editing and production of titles on the picture book list. Working as part of a busy and dynamic team, you will:
• Work with the Senior Editorial team on new titles throughout the publishing process, including costing and development stages, editing, copy-editing and proof-reading
• Assist in the creation and development of new picture books alongside backlist titles, anniversary editions, and reissue, re-use and re-jacketed titles, including those for special markets
• Liaise with authors, illustrators and agents, and maintain strong working relationships with all individuals involved in the editorial and production process
• Contribute fully to the creative process within the team: reading and reporting on submissions and rejecting if required; looking out for new talent and sharing new ideas
• Monitor title progress and manage schedules

Your usual day might include helping to read and respond to submissions, managing and editing new-cover, reissue and anniversary editions, second-editing new picture books for a senior colleague, researching the market, writing copy for sales material, and updating and maintaining internal data systems.

We’d love it if you had…

Essential experience, abilities and knowledge you’ll need to succeed:
• Excellent administration skills with the ability to organise, prioritise and manage workflow
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills
• Exceptional attention to detail
• Clear understanding of the editorial process
• An inclusive approach and be an enthusiastic team player with a positive, self-starting attitude
• Proven interest and passion for children’s books
• Knowledge of the children’s book market and changing trends
• Experience working with systems and tools such as MS Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, Google Workspace and Biblio
• Proven experience of working in a trade publishing house.

Desirable skills we’d love you to have:
• Understanding of visual storytelling
• Passion for story creation and graphic design
• Experience assisting the editorial process and conducting second edits on picture books

Employer details

You will be part of a small, dedicated team working on a vibrant list, which includes number-one bestselling picture and gift books from high-profile authors and illustrators, rising stars and award-winners.