English PEN is the founding centre of PEN International, a worldwide writers’ association with 130 centres in more than 90 countries. English PEN works to promote literature and the right to freedom of expression through a range of campaigns, events, projects and publications.
English PEN’s translation and international literature programme champions literature beyond national and linguistic borders, and beyond conventional literary expectations. The programme reflects the PEN Charter’s declaration that ‘literature […] knows no frontiers, and must remain common currency among people. We do this through our translation grants (PEN Translates, our grant for UK publishers, and PEN Presents, our samples grant for literary translators); PEN Transmissions, our online magazine for international writing; and our events programme, including UK celebrations for International Translation Day.
The Translation Advisory Chairs are experts from different parts of the literary sector who provide support and advice for the programme. We are looking for a third Co-chair to join So Mayer and Preti Taneja, who have been in position since December 2021. We are looking for a literary translator to fill the role.
English PEN celebrates the diversity of literature and envisions a world with free expression and equity of opportunity for all readers and writers. This role plays an essential part in achieving this vision.
Download the full role description (PDF)
This is a voluntary position and is not remunerated. However, travel and, when necessary, accommodation expenses may be paid.
English PEN wishes to encourage applications from candidates who are under-represented in the creative industries.
For further information on English PEN, please download English PEN’s 2022–2023 Impact Report (PDF).
If you would like to discuss this role in confidence, please email Will Forrester, Translation and International Manager, at [email protected].
To apply, please send your CV and a brief statement (maximum two sides of A4) telling us about your suitability for the position to [email protected] by 11.50pm GMT on Tuesday 26 March 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview during the week beginning 15 April 2024.