HarperCollins launches entry-level programmes for 2022

HarperCollins has launched its entry-level training programmes for 2022, including a traineeship scheme for those from underrepresented backgrounds.

This year the Early Careers Programme, previously known as the Graduate Scheme, is an 18-month programme consisting of five rotations in key areas of the organisation. The programme, which no longer requires a degree to apply, has two places available, and successful candidates will gain exposure to departments including sales, editorial, marketing, production and communications.

The scheme is open to anyone interested in starting a career in publishing. HarperCollins said it encourages those from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. The first assessment day will take place virtually on 18th November 2021. Successful candidates will start at HarperCollins in January 2022.

Meanwhile, HarperCollins’ Traineeship Programme returns for the sixth year. The programme was put in place to offer opportunities in publishing to talented people from ethnic minority backgrounds underrepresented in HarperCollins and the wider industry.

It offers a 12-month training contract for two trainees who will complete four rotations in key areas of the business to gain exposure to the industry while also receiving training and learning across different modules. Candidates successful in their application will be invited to the first virtual assessment day on 7th December 2021.

Both schemes opened for applications today (31st August) for one month, closing on 27th September at 5 p.m. The application process is managed by HarperCollins’s blind recruitment platform, BeApplied. Candidates will be asked to answer a range of application questions which will be blind reviewed by hiring teams to ensure fairness and consistency. CVs will not be used in the screening stages.

John Athanasiou, director of people said: “These two schemes offer a way in for the four successful candidates and for many others who come to our attention through their applications, and have already brought many incredible people to HarperCollins. I am delighted to be relaunching these two brilliant programmes with the removal of the degree requirement on the Early Careers programme and can’t wait to meet the next generation of aspiring publishers who I know we will find.”

Maheen Choonara, diversity, inclusion and belonging manager, said: “It’s crucial we increase racial diversity in publishing at all levels. Entry into the industry has always been one of the barriers for minority communities. Through our traineeship, we bring in exceptional talent who continue to add value to every team they work with and HarperCollins as a whole. The Traineeship and Early Careers Progammes give individuals an opportunity to learn about the variety of roles within a publishing house and hopefully find a long-term home with us.”

Information about how to apply for both schemes can be found here.