Job Description

Editorial Assistant, Del Rey (Cornerstone)
Do you love science fiction and fantasy? Are you brimming with ideas, highly organised, and passionate about stories that transport readers to new worlds? We're looking for an ambitious, proactive, and creative Editorial Assistant to join our dynamic team, supporting one of Penguin Random House's most exciting imprints, Del Rey.
About the team
Del Rey is one of the leading science fiction and fantasy imprints in the UK and part of the Cornerstone division. We are dedicated to publishing the very best in commercial and crossover science fiction, fantasy, romantasy, horror, and graphic novels. Our roster includes bestselling authors such as Andy Weir, Danielle L. Jensen, Ernest Cline, and Holly Black, in addition to a range of official licensing titles such as Star Wars, Minecraft, Stranger Things, and many more.
The role
Reporting to the Publishing Director, you'll play a key role in supporting the Del Rey team across a diverse and bestselling list.
You'll be the organisational backbone of the team - managing diaries, coordinating meetings, keeping projects on track, and ensuring our publishing schedules run smoothly.
You'll also gain hands-on editorial experience, from reading and feeding back on submissions to researching cover concepts and working on backlist titles. You'll collaborate with colleagues across departments, help send out book proofs and contribute ideas to our publishing discussions.
This is a role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, creative environment and enjoys being part of a buzzing team.
What you'll bring
Essential criteria:

• Organised and detail-driven, able to juggle multiple deadlines with confidence and care. Attention to detail is a must.
• A confident communicator, happy to share opinions and ideas in meetings and contribute to lively editorial discussions.
• Engaging and collaborative, with a positive, can-do attitude and enthusiasm for working closely with colleagues and authors.
• A passionate reader, specifically science fiction and fantasy, and eager to champion new stories and voices.
• Curious and proactive, keen to learn, take initiative, and make a real impact in the team.
• Proven written ability, showcased through your application and cover letter.
• Experience/ Knowledge of MS Office Excel/Word/ Outlook.
• Previous publishing experience isn't essential, we're more interested in your energy, organisation, and love of books.

Disability Confident
If you have opted into our disability confident scheme, above is the essential criteria you must meet to be considered for our interview scheme. Please note, there may be occasions where the volume of applicants means we can't take all eligible candidates to interview.
Application instructions
Please apply with your CV and cover letter outlining why you are the right candidate for the role by 11:59pm on Wednesday 15th October.
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. As part of your cover letter, please tell us about the best science fiction or fantasy novel you've read this year, and why it stood out to you?
Salary
27,500 plus benefits.
Hybrid working
While our offices across the UK are places to connect, collaborate and celebrate with colleagues, we recognise that flexibility around where you work is just as important. For this role you will work from the office a minimum of three days per week.
Company: Penguin Books Limited | Job ID: 283485

Skills Required