Aria at Head of Zeus, Bloomsbury Publishing, is looking for a forward‑thinking, audience‑savvy Editorial Director to join our Fiction team on a 9‑12 month fixed‑term contract. This is a high‑impact role driving the next phase of our women’s fiction publishing—building momentum, spotting trends early, and publishing books that break out in market.
We’re searching for an Editorial Director with a sharp commercial instinct and a genuine feel for the HOZ and Aria brands. You’ll have a proven track record of commissioning and delivering standout women’s fiction—particularly across romantasy, fantasy and romance—with a clear understanding of what drives discovery in a digital‑first market.
This is an opportunity to play a defining role in an imprint known for agile, market‑responsive publishing. You’ll work at pace and help us scale our list—working with the team to bring fresh voices, bold concepts and highly readable fiction to a growing, highly engaged audience.
Reporting to the Publishing Director, Fiction, you’ll combine editorial excellence with strong industry networks, real‑time market awareness, and a proactive approach to finding the next big thing. You’ll be energised by data, reader trends, and the fast‑moving commercial landscape—and excited by the challenge of turning insight into publishing success.
Responsibilities
- Manage ongoing publishing of current Aria authors, shaping and strategising their future releases.
- Consider submissions with the wider team and direct the Aria team in acquisition of new projects.
- Build strong relationships internally with stakeholders in Art, Production, Sales, Marketing and Publicity.
- Maintain relationships with existing authors and agents with diplomacy and excellent author care.
- Demonstrate strong market awareness of the current market, using analytics to secure new talent for the list.
- Help develop the Aria imprint further and act as an ambassador for the list internally and externally.
- Collaborate with the HOZ Publishing Director and the wider editorial team to develop new growth ideas and opportunities.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Senior editorial experience with a demonstrated vision for generating IP opportunities.
- Strategic sense of how digital publishing is developing in the UK, USA and beyond.
- Passionate consumer of commercial genre fiction, in particular fantasy, romantasy and romance.
- Energetic and energising leader able to inspire a small and busy team.
- Financially literate, understands a P&L account.
- IT literate, understands how evolving technology can enhance publishing.
- Organised and excellent at prioritising tasks.
- Articulate, excellent copywriter.
- Strong visual sense, confident briefing covers.
- Strong knowledge and experience of contractual negotiations, auctions and related processes.
Additional Information
The role is a full‑time fixed‑term contract for 9 – 12 months starting approximately mid‑September 2026.
Salary Range: £44,000 – £69,000 per annum, depending on experience.
Location: Ormond House, 5‑8 Hardwick St, London EC1R 4RG on a hybrid‑working pattern of 2 days office based / 3 days home based (or fully office based if preferred). Allocated office days: Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
EEO Statement
We are an equal‑opportunity employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.
We are willing to make any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please flag to the recruitment team if required.
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