MAGAZINE EDITOR JOB

A magazine features editor ensures that their product is full of entertaining, informative and newsworthy articles. They tend to work for larger publications, such as the weekly and monthly consumer or lifestyle titles (commonly called 'glossy mags'), or the larger trade magazines. In consumer magazines, the features are mainly articles covering anything to do with fashion, beauty and/or lifestyle.

In the case of specialist trade magazines, magazine features editors will need to maintain an up-to-date knowledge of the magazine's subject. Those working in features editing roles for smaller publications will tend to take a wider role will vary according to the publication a features editor works on, but tasks may involve some or all of the following generating topics for articles and encouraging a team of staff to do the same.

Holding regular features meetings where the whole department generates new ideas. Deciding which feature will appear in which issue. Managing a team of staff and freelance feature writers. Commissioning an in-house or freelance writer to write a feature. Sending out briefs for work to writers (with a detailed summary of what is needed, the deadline, word count and fee, etc). Editing features and ensuring they are good enough to print – this may include sending work back to the writer with queries or a request for a rewrite.

Occasionally, researching and rewriting features/sections. Contributing to art desk and production desk discussions around format and illustrations. Proofreading all pages after the production team has set them out before going to press. Maintaining and raising the profile of the magazine. Networking with others in the industry. Attending seminars, conferences and trade fairs attending photo shoots.