Cornerstones is hiring! (Editorial Assistant)

Cornerstones is the leading transatlantic literary consultancy, known for structural editing, scouting for agents, and launching debut writers. We have an exciting opportunity for a self-motivated, enthusiastic individual to join our team as an Editorial Assistant on a full-time, permanent basis. This position includes largely administrative duties, though there is scope to become involved with editorial work, and would appeal to a highly organised individual.

Candidates must be resident in the UK with a right to work in the UK. This is a remote (work from home) position with the flexibility to attend meetings twice a month in the London area. Salary: £26k p/a, dependent on experience.

The role

Cornerstones is a small, friendly core team – we’re constantly sharing creative ideas and welcome innovation of all kinds. As Editorial Assistant, you’ll be working closely with the Managing Editor and Director to support the day-to-day running of Cornerstones. Your responsibilities will be as follows:

  1. To review new author enquiries i.e. submissions and provide brief structural feedback as well as quotes and package recommendations;

  2. To maintain spreadsheets and internal databases, including Cornerstones’s CRM and project calendar across both the UK and US branches; 

  3. To monitor ongoing client projects including proofreading and copy-editing editorial reports and mentoring logs;

  4. To liaise directly with authors and editors as a key point of contact;

  5. To assist with the smooth running of external projects and campaigns – this includes project-managing work and training for external clients as well as Zoom workshop sessions;

  6. To process monthly newsletters and help manage the company social media channels and blog;

  7. To be trained in and support the website, bookkeeper, and Xero accounts, and to handle invoices;

  8. To take phone calls and attend industry meetings when required;

  9. To shadow senior members and deepen your understanding of editorial techniques – ongoing.

Essential skills

This is an entry-level position; those with prior publishing experience are welcome to apply, but this is not necessary. 

  • Strong organisational and time-management skills, and the ability to prioritise in a high-pressure environment;

  • The ability to work autonomously and take initiative in a small, busy company;

  • Meticulous copy-editing and proofreading skills;

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a keen eye for detail and creative flair;

  • An interest in reading across multiple genres, both adult and children’s;

  • Familiarity with creating newsletters and social media content;

  • Computer literacy and a willingness to learn new systems. 

How to apply

To apply, please contact kyrie@cornerstones.co.uk with a CV and covering letter of no more than 500 words outlining why you are the right candidate for this role and demonstrating a clear understanding of Cornerstones’ values. Please also let us know where you heard about the role being advertised. We look forward to reading your application. 

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 18/03/2025 at midnight (UK time).

Preliminary interviews will be held via Zoom, and shortlisted candidates will be invited to London for in-person interviews (dates TBD), so please do mention in your cover letter if you have any accessibility needs.

Cornerstones is an equal opportunities employer. We believe that employing a diverse workforce is an important factor in success and make recruiting decisions based on applicants’ experience and skills. We welcome applications from all members of society irrespective of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief.