Pan Mac opens new apprenticeship scheme

Pan Macmillan has launched a new apprenticeship scheme, an initiative directed at fostering new and diverse talent within publishing.  

The programme, which forms a core part of Pan Macmillan’s Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) strategy, will be primarily directed towards underrepresented groups such as applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities and lower socio-economic backgrounds.  

The first intake is open to applicants who are interested in text design and digital marketing. Apprentices will be paid above the London Living Wage and applicants from outside London can apply for accommodation assistance from The Book Trade Charity if necessary. 

The programme has been established in partnership with LDN Apprentices and the participants will be working towards a Level 3 Publishing Assistant qualification in different disciplines in publishing.  

Each apprentice will have access to a highly experienced skills coach who will provide daily support and guidance as necessary, Pan Macmillan said. They will also be part of a Slack group with other apprentices where they can share their experiences and provide or receive extra support. The programme starts in December with two apprentices and a new cohort will join every nine months.  

Tunde Agbalaya, head of DEI at Pan Macmillan, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for participants to learn first-hand from industry experts. We will provide in-depth training within the publishing business so that, by the time they complete the course, the apprentices will have the skills and relevant work experience necessary to apply successfully for jobs in their chosen area. We are particularly interested in applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities as these groups are underrepresented within the publishing industry."

Briony Grogan, director of people and culture at Pan Macmillan, commented: “I am truly excited about our new apprenticeship programme, which shows our dedication to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the publishing industry. We believe in the power of diverse voices and perspectives, and this programme is our commitment to bringing this belief to life.

"By welcoming underrepresented talent, we are not only providing opportunities to those who might not traditionally have access to them, but we’re also enriching our own work environment and the narratives we share with the world.” 

Full job descriptions and details of the scheme can be found on the Pan Macmillan website and the LDN Apprentices websites.