Desk Editor

Job description

You'll be managing publication of 12-15 new projects a year from receipt of manuscript or post-structural edit to finished product, ensuring high quality, cost-controlled, timely publication.

This will involve working independently to project manage titles, being responsible for line editing, checking and clearing permissions, sourcing and planning plate sections and proofreading to time, cost and quality specifications. This may also include:
• Liaising with author during writing to ensure manuscript delivery and quality (in support of the commissioning team)
• Preparing manuscripts for copy-editing and production
• Checking proofs and ebook files
• Supporting team leader as required for projects or help training new joiners
• Briefing text designs, drafting copy for catalogues/internal use, drafting cover copy on occasion
• Problem solving to maintain schedules
• Planning proactively, taking into account the impact of own practice on the work of other teams
• Controlling and monitor spending against budget and guidelines and following up on any potential overspend
• Where applicable, preparing illustration briefs, checking artworks, making photo selections and size images
• Providing information to internal functions to communicate progress and provide basic information on product. This would include:
• Attending meetings and carrying out tasks in relation to allocated projects
• Other editorial tasks relating to our 15 (approx) new titles a year, as required

This role can be based at our London, Manchester, or Sheffield office, with a blend of in-office (3 days) and homeworking (2 days) per week. We are particularly keen to hear from applicants for our Manchester and Sheffield office.

We’d love it if you had…

Skills/Knowledge/Personal Attributes:
• Organisational skills including planning ahead and independently managing projects
• Meticulous eye for detail
• Project management
• Cost control
• Communication skills
• Copy editing
• Proofreading
• Computer literacy and aptitude (Microsoft Office, able to pick up new digital skills as required)
• Understanding of copyright issues
• Proactive
• Able to work as part of a team
• Quality orientated
• Focused on the needs of the end user
• Adaptability

Experience:
• Proven experience in editorial or publishing role
• Full understanding of publishing process
• Project management of a publishing project
• Biblio experience an advantage, though this can be trained
• Market knowledge or interest

Qualifications:
• Trained in proofreading and copy-editing

Employer details

Quercus is a dynamic, award-winning publisher. Known as a hit-maker that regularly finds books that surprise and delight readers, we are international in our outlook and publish an exciting and diverse range of authors. From established bestsellers to new voices, what draws our publishing together is the magic ‘quirk' in Quercus: independence, flair, warmth and creativity.

Quercus is a part of Hachette, one of the largest publishing groups in the UK, with 11 publishing divisions and over 60 imprints. Everyone here is proud to be in the business of opening doors and minds.