Could you be Island’s next Editorial Manager?

Island is looking for a new Editorial Manager who can start work in November 2026.

Island is one of Australia’s longest-standing literary magazines, currently publishing four print issues a year and more than 50 online pieces, as well as providing a program of events and professional development opportunities for writers. As part of a two-person leadership team at Island, the Editorial Manager is responsible for all aspects of Island’s editorial production and works in close collaboration with the organisation’s Business Manager to maintain Island’s funding and partnerships. The Editorial Manager reports to the Board of Directors; six specialist editors report to the Editorial Manager. 

Island’s Editorial Manager will: 

  • take overall editorial responsibility for the content and production of Island magazine and Island Online to fulfill the strategic objectives and standards determined by the Management Committee (board) 

  • manage the production of Island magazine and Island Online, including managing a team of specialist editors and working with external suppliers 

  • work in close partnership with the Business Manager to ensure the functioning and growth of the organisation, including seeking and acquitting funding, proposing and delivering special projects, developing strategic partnerships, serving on the management committee, reporting to the Board 

  • represent Island in public, including attending relevant events, presenting on behalf of the organisation and speaking with media outlets. 

The Editorial Manager’s workload is variable, peaking during production of the print magazine. Expect to work one-to-two days a week in quiet times, and up to five days (with some weekend and evening hours) during busy periods. Island has an office at the Sandy Bay campus of the University of Tasmania, but most work can be done from home. However, the Editorial Manager must live in Lutruwita/Tasmania. 

The position pays $44,000 + super annually. The Editorial Manager works as an independent contractor. 

A detailed position description is available. 

Selection criteria

We are looking for someone with: 

  • strong editorial skills: you’ll be selecting pieces, working with authors on edits, and proofreading 

  • project management skills, preferably in publishing, and excellent time management 

  • an ability to balance taking initiative with working collaboratively 

  • an ability to manage a small team of creative workers

  • an ability to manage existing partnerships and build new ones 

  • some experience of finding funding sources and meeting funders’ requirements 

  • experience using publishing software such as the Adobe suite and Squarespace, or a confident approach to learning new technology

  • enthusiasm for working with, supporting and building the literary community, particularly in Lutruwita/Tasmania. 

How to apply

Please send your application to chair@islandmag.com. Include a one-to-two-page cover letter outlining how you will meet the above selection criteria. If you have strengths in editing and production but are not as strong in creative leadership (or vice-versa), we still want to hear from you. Also include a one-to-two-page CV showing your relevant experience.

Applications close 6 October at 5pm.

If you have questions about the position, please contact jane@islandmag.com.