How do you come up with new marketing ideas?
Because of the size of our budgets (very small), we need to invent ideas that will help us to punch above our weight. We watch closely what happens in other sectors, speak to agencies and draw a lot of creativity from our authors.
What are the perks of the job?
The best perk is getting to read our favourite authors' work before it is published. Building our authors into bestsellers gives us all a great buzz.
Describe the marketing team in three words.
Smart, committed, imaginative.
What is the main marketing challenge you face?
The sheer quantity of new products that we deal with means that our marketing resources - both time and money - are hard-pressed to create impact.
Is there a dress code?
Not really. Penguin is pretty casual, though we do dress up for book launches and parties.
What are the hours like?
Generally 9.30am to 6pm, but if we're working on a pitch, we might have to work late. We also have to read masses of books, which has to be done outside working hours.
What is the company like for training and career progression?
Penguin has a great record of retaining staff and promoting from within. We are always keen to attract the brightest and the best from all backgrounds.
Are there any downsides?
We've tried to think of some, but we can't.
Is there anything particularly interesting about the inside of your office?
We are in a fabulous listed building on the Thames and there are books - everywhere.
Company facts
- Penguin is based at 80 Strand, London WC2R 0RL.
- The company employs about 1000 people in the UK, of whom 30 or so are marketers; its workforce is 75% female.
- Marketers can work on author brands such as Jamie Oliver and Jeremy Clarkson.
- Penguin is the third-biggest UK publisher, with a market share of just under 10%.
- Its global chief executive and chairman is John Makinson; Joanna Prior is marketing and publicity director; Elizabeth Smith is general marketing director.