Publishing Editor
Publishing editors manage the selection, design, editing and printing of publications such as books, journals and resource materials. Many also help with marketing and distribution.
Tasks may include:
• selecting, critiquing and editing manuscripts for publication
• negotiating contracts with clients, authors, designers, illustrators, photographers, translators, printers, distributors and other editors
• budgeting and project management
• producing updated editions
• commissioning authors
• selling a publication’s rights to overseas publishing houses
• organising and attending workshops, photo shoots, book launches, fairs and conferences.
Skills and knowledge
Publishing editors need to have:
• editing skills, including a thorough knowledge of English, spelling, grammar and vocabulary
• an understanding of book design, printing and production
• a good general knowledge, including knowledge of New Zealand culture, history, literature, society and language
• excellent communication and people skills
• research and problem solving skills
• business skills, including budgeting and marketing
• time management skills
• computer skills.
Personal qualities
To be a publishing editor you must be:
• accurate, with an eye for detail
• tactful and culturally sensitive
• diplomatic when dealing with clients
• able to motivate people
• able to handle stress and work well under pressure
• interested in reading and writing
• able to meet deadlines.
