Publishing trainee (10m FTC)

Job description

Are you passionate about inclusivity in children's literature? Gain hands-on experience and develop a range of literary and technical skills with this remote training opportunity at a small, London-based independent publisher.

Although the role is fully remote, the trainee will have opportunities to travel to London and other parts of the UK to support author workshops and attend key publishing events such as festivals or award ceremonies. These are invaluable for professional development and for building industry networks. Networking is an essential part of publishing—it helps us connect with talented, vetted authors, illustrators, freelance editors, and designers, as well as a range of organisations that align with our mission.

The trainee will receive mentoring on how to network effectively and present themselves professionally. All travel expenses will be reimbursed. These experiences will offer the trainee first-hand insight into the many interconnected roles within the publishing industry.

As a small business, attendance at book fairs is vital. The trainee will help prepare for these events and will be offered to attend at least one fair. They will also gain hands-on experience and transferable skills across the creative industries, including digital marketing, event planning, editorial work, public speaking, design, content development, communication, and contract/quote negotiation.

Key activities

Editorial & content creation
• Proofreading, copywriting, and fact-checking
• Clearing permissions for content use
• Writing advance information sheets for books
• Reading and assessing manuscripts

Marketing & publicity
• Writing book festival pitches
• Designing book adverts and social media assets
• Creating compelling designs using Canva or Adobe Suite for marketing and publicity
• Helping to grow and engage our online community
• Conducting market research

Administrative & organisational skills
• Prize and translation grant administration
• Maintaining and updating our database
• Handling administrative tasks such as minute-taking, phone and email queries

By the end of the traineeship, you will have:
• Gained the confidence and practical knowledge to apply for an entry-level role in publishing or a related role in the creative industry.
• Attended at least one international book fair.
• Contributed to editorial and marketing efforts for upcoming titles.
• Built a foundational network of industry contacts.
• Received mentorship and guidance tailored to their interests and professional goals.

What you will learn

Editorial & content creation
• How to proofread, copywrite, and fact-check content for accuracy and clarity
• Understanding copyright and permissions clearance for content us
• How to write advance information sheets that effectively promote books
• Skills in manuscript evaluation and providing constructive feedback

Marketing & publicity
• How to craft persuasive book festival pitches
• The fundamentals of book marketing, including designing adverts and social media assets
• Strategies for growing and engaging an online community around books
• How to conduct market research to identify trends and target audiences

Administrative & organisational skills
• The process of prize and translation grants application
• How to maintain and update a publishing database efficiently

We’d love it if you had…

Writing & communication skills:
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Interest in learning how to write clear and engaging content (e.g., emails, reports, social media posts)
• Interest in books, literature, publishing with a demonstrable interest in Lantana’s publishing

Attention to detail & organisation:
• Ability to review and check documents for accuracy (e.g., permissions, prize applications)
• Good organisational skills to manage tasks like database updates and administrative work
• Good time management and ability to meet deadlines

Creative & digital skills:
• Willingness to learn how to design promotional materials (e.g., book adverts, social media graphics)
• Good working knowledge of tools like Canva or Adobe Suite (Photoshop, InDesign) and a flair for design
• Interest in social media and online community engagement

Research & analytical thinking:
• Willingness to read and assess manuscripts with a critical eye
• Interest in understanding how books are marketed and promoted

Administrative & teamwork skills:
• Comfortable handling administrative tasks like answering emails, taking minutes, and organising files
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and communicate effectively with colleagues
• Willingness to take initiative, work independently and learn new skills on the job
• Strong IT skills

Academic requirements:
• An undergraduate degree in Humanities or Science OR experience in writing and creative skills such as design

This opportunity is open to Black, Asian and ethnically diverse candidates.

Employer details

Lantana is an award-winning children's book publisher and social enterprise with a mission to publish inclusive books by authors from under-represented groups and from around the world. Each year, we publish a select list of exceptional titles promoting diversity and inclusion, social and racial justice, gender equality, pride, empathy, mindfulness and wellbeing, with beautifully illustrated stories that help happy little minds to flourish. Many of our books are by debut authors who have gone on to achieve widespread recognition and win awards for their work. Several more are English translations of books originally published abroad by acclaimed international authors and which we’re excited to bring to English-speaking readers.

Lantana is preparing to expand its catalogue at the end of 2026. The publishing trainee will play a key role in supporting this growth. At Lantana, we view publishing books for children and young people as a serious responsibility, as books shape the minds of tomorrow. We are seeking a motivated individual to help commission, develop, and shape engaging, high-quality content that reflects the diversity of modern society.