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David Miller Internship returns in partnership with Creative Access
The return of the DRF David Miller Internship Programme has been announced, in partnership with Creative Access, with two paid internships providing an entry-level insight into rights and agenting in publishing.
Now in its third year, the scheme creates entry pathways for people from groups underrepresented in the publishing rights sector, in partnership with Creative Access, a leading social enterprise body specialising in diversity, equity and inclusion. There will be a focus on attracting candidates from communities underrepresented in the industry.
The internship supports two paid internships over a six-week period, offering an introduction to rights and agenting across both publishers and literary agencies. Host partners include Penguin Random House, Faber, Profile Books, David Higham, Greyhound Literary, ILA, PEW Literary and Eccles Fisher. The placement will include a visit to the Frankfurt Book Fair in October, the key yearly rights event.
The internships will be overseen and managed by the trustees of the Deborah Rogers Foundation (DRF), together with senior executives from the collaborating publishing houses and agencies. The two interns will be given mentoring and guidance throughout their placements.
Gill Coleridge, DRF founder, said: “It is very exciting to witness its ongoing success. I am incredibly grateful to all those who are involved with the scheme. It is a very fitting tribute to both David Miller and Deborah Rogers.”
Richard Cable, DRF director, said: “The internship programme continues to highlight the crucial work of rights teams in publishing. With our partner organisations‘ support we provide a unique cross industry opportunity to those from under represented communities to build skills and contacts and potentially begin a career in rights management.”
Bibi Hilton, chief executive of Creative Access, commented: “Creative Access’ own data confirms that financial barriers hinder many from entering and thriving in the literary world, with over half (57%) of respondents to our recent survey citing financial barriers as a significant threat to their creative career progression.
“The top three reported financial barriers when applying to jobs were commuting costs, unaffordable living costs, and lacking funds for relocation. The DRF David Miller Internship Programme’s provision of accommodation, travel costs, and a fully paid internship is not only groundbreaking but crucial. This initiative sets a new standard, broadening access to individuals from underrepresented groups in publishing, literary rights, and agenting.”
Creative Access will lead the search for candidates with a particular focus in attracting those from communities under-represented in the sector. They will facilitate the initial longlisting of potential candidates, from which a shortlist will be agreed. Applications should be made to Creative Access and will be open until 13th May 2024 with interviews in June, and the six-week placements will begin from mid-September.
Payment will be made in two stages, based on the current rate of the London Living Wage along with expenses. Accommodation will be provided and paid for if needed.
The programme is named in memory of RCW agent David Miller who died in 2016.
For further information about the programme, and for details of how to apply, visit the DRF website.
