Art Director, Fiction (12 month Maternity Cover)

Art Director, Fiction (12 month Maternity Cover) HarperCollins Publishers

Employment Type: Contract, 12-month FTC

Location: Hybrid London, UK (3+ days in the office)

Seniority: Senior

• Closing: 11:55pm, 11th May 2025 BST

Perks and Benefits

• Work from home option
• Wellness programs
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• Mentoring/coaching
• Cycle to work scheme

Candidate Happiness Score

8.66 (29392)

Job Description

About HarperFiction

HarperFiction is one of the UK's most successful commercial fiction publishers, known for innovative, market-leading campaigns that produce bestsellers. We publish major brands and authors, achieving chart-topping success across various genres.

We seek a talented Art Director to join our dynamic design team across five divisions-HarperFiction, HarperNonFiction, Avon, One More Chapter, and HarperNorth-as maternity cover for 12 months.

The role involves creating high-quality, commercial book covers, managing the design team, and supporting the Creative Director and Studio Manager in daily operations. You will report directly to the Creative Director.

Responsibilities include:

• Designing original, market-leading book covers across genres
• Supporting the Creative Director and Studio Manager in departmental management
• Leading weekly cover meetings
• Managing and mentoring direct reports
• Collaborating with other departments for additional assets and strategies
• Maintaining a portfolio demonstrating confidence across all market areas
• Handling multiple projects proactively and efficiently
• Providing art direction and advice to ensure high-quality outputs

Qualifications and Skills:

• Outstanding portfolio of book cover designs
• Experience managing and art directing designers
• Ability to meet deadlines without compromising quality
• Flexible, proactive attitude
• Calm and professional response to feedback
• Expertise in InDesign and Photoshop

Additional Benefits:

• Hybrid working (3 days in-office)
• 28 days holiday plus bank holidays (option to buy/sell)
• Enhanced leave pay for parental leave
• Private healthcare and life assurance
• Summer Hours, wellbeing programs, and more

We offer extensive training, employee networks, and support programs to foster a diverse and inclusive environment. Applicants are encouraged to submit a one-page PDF portfolio alongside their CV, highlighting key projects and experience.

For inquiries, contact with subject 'Vacancy Query' plus the role. Applications must be submitted via our platform; email applications are not accepted.

We value authenticity and integrity in our recruitment process, encouraging responses that genuinely reflect your experience and capabilities.