Commissioning Editor, Adult Publishing

Simon & Schuster; England; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a motivated commissioning editor to join their dynamic Adult Editorial Non-Fiction team. This role offers the chance to build and manage a list of business titles, ensuring they align with market needs while fostering relationships with authors and agents. The ideal candidate will bring extensive knowledge in business publishing, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for creating impactful titles. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a market-leading list in a supportive and inclusive environment, making a significant impact in the publishing world.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge in business publishing and editing.
• Ability to manage titles from acquisition to publication.

Responsibilities

• Commission and publish business titles, managing the publishing process.
• Collaborate across departments and maintain author relationships.

Skills

Business Publishing

Editing

Acquiring Titles

Negotiating Contracts

Market Analysis

Education

Degree in Publishing or Related Field

Experience in Editorial Roles

Job description

30 April 2025

Simon & Schuster UK, a leading general book publishing company, was named Publisher of the Year at the British Book Awards in 2022 and 2023, and Children’s Publisher of the Year in 2023. Based in London with sister companies in the US, Canada, Australia, and India, the UK division includes four imprints: Gallery, Scribner, Simon & Schuster, and Simon & Schuster Children’s Books. These publish a diverse range of authors across commercial fiction, literary fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. The company also provides sales and distribution services for various independent and international publishers.

Simon & Schuster International aims to publish a broad and diverse array of books that reflect the world around us. They are committed to supporting writers, illustrators, and creative partners from all backgrounds, regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, nationality, religion, age, or socio-economic status.

The Job Profile: The Adult Editorial Non-Fiction team at Simon & Schuster UK seeks a business-savvy, motivated, and entrepreneurial commissioning editor to join their dynamic team. The role involves building and managing a list of business titles, both domestically and internationally.

Reporting to the Deputy Publishing Director, the successful candidate will oversee the development of the company’s business book publishing, aiming to create a profitable and internationally recognized list within the expanding publishing program.

The Job Role: The candidate will commission and publish business titles, manage existing backlist titles, and ensure the list aligns with market needs. Responsibilities include managing titles through the publishing process, preparing costings, negotiating contracts, collaborating across departments, promoting titles enthusiastically, writing copy, briefing jackets, contributing to strategic initiatives, and maintaining excellent author and agent relationships.

The Candidate Profile: The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge and experience in business publishing, including editing, acquiring, and publishing. They should have a keen eye for detail and design, a passion for business-related books (e.g., coaching, management, leadership, finance, personal development), and the ability to manage titles from acquisition to publication. They must be confident ambassadors for the company, capable of building industry relationships both in the UK and internationally.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone eager to develop a market-leading list aligned with their vision. We welcome candidates with diverse experiences to apply.

Apply: Please submit your CV and cover letter.

Simon & Schuster UK is committed to equality and inclusion in the workplace. We believe opportunity and access should be available to all, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, age, disability, or other characteristics. All employees will be subject to company policies, including the Workplace Privacy Notice, and benefits plans.

Job Family: Editorial

Job Function: Content / Editorial / Publishing