Careers
Your next career opportunity awaits you at Jacaranda Books, a top publishing house in the heart of London.
Assistant Editor – Fiction & Non-Fiction
At Jacaranda Books, we believe stories can shift culture, challenge perspectives, and expand the literary canon. As one of the UK’s leading independent publishers specialising in diverse and underrepresented voices, we publish award-winning fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books that reflect the richness of global Black literature and contemporary storytelling.
We are now seeking an experienced Assistant Editor to join our editorial team and play a central role in the development and delivery of our publishing programme across both fiction and non-fiction.
This is an exciting opportunity for a highly organised, editorially confident, and culturally engaged publishing professional who is passionate about championing exceptional writing and supporting authors at every stage of the publishing process.
The Role
Reporting to the Publishing Director and Commissioning Editor, the Assistant Editor will support the acquisition, development, and publication of titles across our list. The role combines hands-on editorial work with project management, author care, and cross-departmental coordination.
Adopting professional, dynamic, and agile editorial standards within a collaborative culture, this role is ideal for someone looking to take the next step in their editorial career within a mission-driven independent publisher.
Key Responsibilities
Editorial & Manuscript Development
● Assist the Publishing Director and Commissioning Editor with the development and delivery of manuscripts from acquisition to publication.
● Undertake structural and line editing on selected projects, helping authors strengthen narrative, clarity, and style.
● Review submissions and prepare reader’s reports and editorial assessments. ● Proofread manuscripts and check revised proofs for accuracy and consistency. ● Write compelling copy for book jackets, catalogues, sales materials, and online metadata.
Author Care & Relationship Management
● Act as a key point of contact for authors, ensuring clear, professional, and supportive communication throughout the publishing process.
● Build strong relationships with authors and agents, reflecting Jacaranda’s commitment to inclusive and respectful publishing.
● Coordinate author queries, approvals, and delivery schedules with sensitivity and efficiency.
Project Management & Collaboration
● Manage editorial schedules and ensure manuscripts move smoothly through production timelines.
● Liaise with production, design, sales, publicity, and marketing teams to support successful publication campaigns.
● Prepare cover briefs and work with in-house and freelance designers on cover development.
● Ensure metadata, sales information, and marketing assets are delivered accurately and on time.
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for someone with proven editorial experience in trade publishing and a genuine passion for diverse literature and independent publishing.
Essential
● At least 3–5 years’ experience in an editorial role within trade publishing. ● Strong editorial judgement and demonstrable experience of structural and line editing. ● Excellent written English, proofreading, and copywriting skills.
● Outstanding organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
● Confident communicator with experience working directly with authors and agents. ● A collaborative approach including the ability to work effectively across departments and communicate proactively with senior team members.
● Passion for inclusive publishing and a strong interest in contemporary fiction and non-fiction by diverse voices.
Desirable
● Experience working with literary fiction, narrative non-fiction, memoir, or culturally diverse lists.
● Familiarity with Biblio, Nielsen metadata, or publishing management systems. ● Knowledge of the UK and international publishing landscape, including emerging writers and trends in diverse literature.
What Makes This Role Special
Joining Jacaranda means becoming part of a small, ambitious, and internationally recognised publishing house with a reputation for discovering and championing exceptional talent. You will work closely with award-winning authors and experienced publishing professionals, with real scope to contribute editorially and shape the future of our list.
We offer:
● The opportunity to work on meaningful, culturally significant books. ● A collaborative and entrepreneurial publishing environment.
● Hands-on editorial responsibility and career development opportunities. ● The chance to help shape one of the UK’s most distinctive independent publishers.
Location & Salary
● Location: London / Hybrid working available
● Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
● Contract: Full-time, permanent
How to Apply
Please send your CV, a cover letter outlining your editorial experience and interest in Jacaranda Books, and examples of any relevant editorial work to
valerie@jacarandabooks.co.uk.
Closing date: 30th June 2026
We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive publishing industry.
About Jacaranda Books
Jacaranda Books is an award-winning independent publisher dedicated to publishing outstanding fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books by writers from the UK, Africa, the Caribbean, and the global diaspora. Our mission is to amplify voices that have historically been underrepresented in mainstream publishing and to bring bold, brilliant stories to readers everywhere.