Summary

We are looking for an experienced designer who has worked in the children's publishing industry to manage all aspects of the design process from concept through to publication.

Full Job Description

Purpose of the Role

To design and prepare for publication an agreed list of titles/series across the publishing list.  Managing all aspects of the design from concept through to publication, supplying sales material and final files to Production.  Working closely with the Art Director to develop technical and creative design skills.

Main responsibilities

• Manage creative design work on projects including briefing, approvals, schedules and quality control from concept to print
• Create strong, dynamic, commercially sound design that is appropriate to the brand, format, target market and end user
• Design compelling front and back covers that sell the benefits of the book
• Identify potential new designers, illustrators, agencies, packagers and other freelance contributors and review talent pool to ensure best people are being used
• Monitor own project schedules ensuring they meet key dates
• Put forward ideas and suggestions for the smooth running of the team, and ask for help and input when needed
• Ensure book designs are produced to a high standard and error-free
• Create and maintain all files inline with in-house set-up guidelines
• Commission content and brief freelancers with guidance from Art Director
• Provide quality sales materials in accordance with the Critical Date Path
• Suggest commercial ideas for new books/projects providing a strong commercial and creative rationale
• Contribute ideas for new and/or improved processes and team development
• Keep Production up to date with schedule changes and flag up late file delivery
• Liaise with Production regarding technical or safety requirements, up-front testing and other safety issues.
• Establish and maintain an awareness of children’s book market, media, marketing and product, such as toys and games. Also engage with relevant sales and marketing reports
• Identify key trends in global Children’s market and share these with the team and encourage sharing of trends/ideas.

Skills & Experience

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a design role within children’s publishing
• Highly skilled in Adobe Creative Suite for print and PDF workflow
• Conscientious, self-motivated and pro-active, with a passion for design and children’s illustration
• Exceptional organisation skills and fully able to work within project timelines and ensure all key deadlines are met