Literary Rights Assistant

The Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated, organised, and enthusiastic assistant to an International Rights Literary Agent in our London Literary department. The Books team in London is a dynamic and collaborative group of agents and assistants, whose various remits include Primary Agenting and the sale of International Rights.

The ideal candidate will be an avid reader who is passionate about books, with a strong interest in international publishing and the global entertainment industry. This role will have a particular focus on translation rights, so previous experience in a Rights department or similar is desirable. Language skills are desirable but not essential.

Responsibilities and duties include but are not limited to:

• Assisting with the preparation of submissions; logging deals in our system; tracking contracts, payments, and royalties; and generating reports, lists, and timetables.

• Reading manuscripts and book proposals for all genres, for both UK and US authors, and producing concise reading reports for the International Rights department, with a specific aim to give feedback about their international scope.

• Liaising with clients, publishers, and internal colleagues, maintaining good relationships and open communication.

• Updating and maintaining key department databases.

• Assisting with the preparation of Frankfurt, London, and Bologna Book Fairs, as well as other business trips.

• Paying attention to trends in international markets and reporting back to the team.

• Proactive support to the agent, including diary management, travel arrangements, answering phones and drafting correspondence. Other ad hoc tasks as required.

The candidate will ideally have:

• A huge passion for reading, with a genuine interest in international publishing and translation markets.

• Great attention to detail and the ability to work to a high standard whilst managing a high volume of information.

• A willingness to learn quickly, with a hard-working, extra-mile attitude compatible with a fast-paced environment.

• A genuine team-player who is reliable, can take initiative, and solve problems.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• A clear understanding of the importance of excellent client service and absolute discretion.

WME  

WME is the world’s preeminent talent agency.  With over 125 years of experience, WME enables artists, athletes and brands to grow their businesses, leverage the full potential of their intellectual property, and bring projects to life that define the cultural landscape.  WME’s expertise spans books, comedy, digital media, fashion, film, food, licensing, music, sports, television, theater, and more.  Headquartered in Beverly Hills, WME’s office locations include Australia, Chicago, China, London, Miami, Nashville, and New York.  WME is part of WME Group, a global network of businesses that represent the world’s leading talent, intellectual property and brands.  For more information, please visit www.wmeagency.com.    

WME is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, or religion or belief.