Creative Commissioning Editor, Character Publishing

You will be responsible for supporting the Character Publisher and the other Character creative team members across all projects. Currently the key character properties in development are: Where’s Wally? (original Martin Handford list), Where’s Wally? (non-fiction list) Maisy, Lucy Cousins and Guess How Much I Love You. This list will grow over time. 
 
Job Purpose:  To execute the creation, editing, and copyediting of titles on the Character list in conjunction with the publisher and art directors, the Maisy Editorial team and the Sam Mc Bratney Trade Editor. Developing and writing specific titles as required for the Wally, GHMILY and Maisy lists, and supporting the Publisher in managing the schedule to ensure that the character lists meet identified market needs and sales growth.  
 
Key responsibilities:  

• Editorial/Text generation:
• Editorial input into the list • Generating text for AI’s and other marketing specific materials such as promotional catalogues and leaflets.
• Taking projects through the Development process and delivering on time.
• Being informed about the market and market needs in all key territories.
• Supporting the Publisher and MD in liaison with design, sales, marketing, and production across the Group companies.
• Supporting the Publisher and MD in maintaining key external relationships pertinent to the Character list.
• Handling general enquiries from Marketing and Publicity regarding promotion of the list.
• Handling approval of Character based Marketing and Publicity material.
• Handling approval of all relevant stages of title development by outside licensors.
• Managing the schedule for the lists and attending regular meetings.
• Liaison with Production.  

 
Key personal qualities and experience: 

• Knowledge of and respect for rights issues and legal detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Collaborative and team-oriented approach to working
• Strong ability to identify and understand trends and opportunities in character publishing
• Good ability to manage time and personal resources to handle periods of tight deadlines
• Strong familiarity with manufacturing processes, opportunities, and limitations for novelty and young books
• Significant experience with other highly visible, global brands and properties at the preschool, young primary, and middle school age groups
• Background in both author-led and licensor-led publishing needs and requirements
• Creativity and innovation in thought and concept development
• Strong knowledge of development issues and needs as related to books for children from birth through to age 12
• Strong current knowledge, as well as some historical knowledge, of American character publishing marketplace and title/format trends, in particular

To apply for this role, please email a cover letter and C.V. to recruitment@walker.co.uk