My Job in 5: Victoria Brown

1. Describe your role.

I am a publicity executive at Thames & Hudson, so my job is to secure reviews, interviews, features and events to promote our upcoming books. I personally specialise in the history, archaeology and museum titles. I also have the opportunity to work across a diverse list of beautifully produced books.

2. What do you like best about your role?

I love picking up a newspaper or magazine and seeing a feature I’ve helped arrange, and it’s a fantastic feeling when you see an increase in sales on the back of coverage you’ve secured. I really enjoy working on events too, whether that’s literary festivals, museum lectures or bookshop events.

3. Which new projects or titles are you working on at the moment?

I’m currently working on the beautiful Charles Booth’s London Poverty Maps. It's a remarkable book that not only reproduces the world-famous maps, but also pairs them with contemporary photography, anecdotes from the researchers’ notebooks and contextualising essays. I’m also collaborating with the British Museum for the catalogue accompanying their upcoming exhibition, Troy: myth and reality, and I’m looking ahead to Spring 2020!

4. What skills do you need for your role?

Communication is key. Every day you are liaising with journalists, authors, editors and publishing partners, so it helps to be clear, concise and quick to respond. It also helps to be highly organised and have an ability to prioritise a busy schedule - especially in the lead up to Christmas.

5. What advice would you give to those looking to work in the industry?

Publishing is a very friendly industry and there are always people who are happy to help you take your first steps. Reach out to people on social media and, especially if you are able to get an internship, asks questions, be proactive and enthusiastic – that’s what entry level jobs are looking for.