Head of Design (Book Publishing)

StoryTerrace is the global leader in the emerging publishing-tech space, turning life stories into books. We leverage proprietary technology and a network of over 600 freelance writers across Europe and North America. With thousands of books created and an average Trustpilot rating of 4.5/5, our mission is to make professional life stories accessible to everyone.

We are seeking a Head of Design (freelance/ consultant) with extensive experience in book publishing to lead and shape the visual direction of our projects. In this consulting role, you will be responsible for advising on the design strategy and providing expertise across diverse categories, including memoirs, self-published books, travel books, anniversary editions, and children's books. This position reports to the Director of Customer & Editorial Operations and will require a minimum of 1 day working at our London office for 6 months.

• Set Visual Design Strategy : Define the visual design strategy and oversee execution for all existing and upcoming book categories, ensuring consistency and excellence in memoirs, children's books, travel books, business books, and more.
• Quality Control : Act as the gatekeeper for all design-related projects, including our PRO and Self-Published books. You will steer design briefs and act as the final sign-off on these projects, ensuring that book covers, interiors and overall aesthetics are both commercially appealing and visually distinctive.
• Talent Recruitment: Working closely with the Editorial Operations team, you will help to expand our pool of talented freelance designers, and source the best printers/suppliers.

• Lead Design Sessions : Conduct storyboarding and consultation sessions as our design expert, collaborating with Sales and Publishing teams to help customers identify and maximise the commercial potential of their books.
• Team Management and Coaching : Manage a team of freelance designers and coach in-house Project Editors on how to set briefs and show them what good looks like. You provide timely, constructive feedback to inspire and guide them towards producing their best work.

• Proven experience in a related design field, with significant experience in book publishing
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage remote/freelance/in-house teams, providing feedback and coaching to bring out the best in others
• Strong client and stakeholder management skills
• Expertise in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator), with familiarity in Adobe XD or Figma
• Creative and adaptable mindset, open to innovation and constructive feedback
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to prioritise multiple projects effectively

• Salary: competitive
• Ownership of key projects with a strong sense of mission and teamwork
• London based hybrid role with flexibility around working hours
• An international start-up environment with a strong sense of team and mission!

At StoryTerrace, we value empathy, collaboration, innovation, and diversity. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the visual identity of life stories in a growing, purpose-driven company. Apply today to join us on our ambitious journey!