Curious about the world around you? From history and politics to science and culture, Viking publishes the non-fiction that gets everyone talking — from Michelle Obama to Ben Macintyre.
Are you driven by an insatiable curiosity about the world – from history and politics to science and culture? Are you constantly seeking out the latest ideas, debates and innovations? Are you fascinated by the world of books and keen to know more?
If you’re interested in non-fiction books and bringing ideas and stories to a wider audience, this could be the role for you.
Founded in the UK forty years ago, Viking is the longstanding home for high-quality, culture defining writers across fiction and non-fiction. We love publishing books that combine brilliant writing with popular appeal, that hit the bestseller lists, win prizes and shed light on the world around us. Our non-fiction authors range from prize-winning historians and cutting-edge scientists to distinguished journalists and outstanding memoirists, including Anthony Bale, Julia Boyd, Pope Francis, Luke Kemp, Natasha Lunn, Ben Macintyre, Michelle Obama and John Robins.
As an editorial trainee with Viking Non-Fiction, you will gain a rare and insightful overview of the publishing work that takes place every day at a leading non-fiction imprint. You’ll get the opportunity to be involved in every aspect of a book’s life cycle, including reading proposals for new books, gaining an insight into the editing process, writing book descriptions for the cover and online, and understanding how we work with each department to create the finished book.
Many of the books we publish at Viking start out as an idea – whether that’s from an interesting article we’ve read, an up-and-coming academic we’ve heard about, or someone spotting an interesting conversation online. As an editorial trainee, you will also have a unique opportunity to support the team identifying and commissioning new authors, and helping to publish new voices.
Knowledge and skills you’ll gain: an understanding of the publishing industry and the non-fiction market; insight into all aspects of a book’s life cycle and how to successfully publish a book; communication and networking skills; project management skills; and IT proficiency across Microsoft Office and publishing-specific systems such as Biblio, PowerBI, Bookscan and Keyword Management System.
How to Apply
No need to spend ages crafting the perfect CV and cover letter – to apply to The Scheme, you will answer three short questions on an inclusive hiring platform called Applied. We’ll ask you about three of the core qualities or universal skills that we’re looking for in all of our trainees. In this application form, we’ll also ask you to tell us your top 3 preferences of the roles available on this year’s programme. We will anonymously score answers to determine the highest scoring applicants.
While we have publicised this opportunity, please note that: (i) the application and selection process is managed by the advertising company/organisation; and (ii) we rely on them to: provide accurate, up-to-date details about themselves and the opportunity; ensure that opportunities are ethical and paid fairly. To report a listing, please email [email protected].