This week, FeaturesExec caught up with editor of Horse&Rider Nicky Moffatt. We discussed the content of the magazine, how PRs can be of use to her and what she’d do if she didn’t edit Horse&Rider!
Horse&Rider is published every four weeks by Signature Publishing/DJ Murphy.
About the publication:
Tell us a bit about Horse&Rider:
Horse&Rider is the most comprehensive magazine for riders and horse owners. Offering practical advice on all aspects of riding, horse care and new products, it is recognised in the industry as the authoritative and trustworthy information source.
How do you differ from other media outlets in your sector?
We are the UK’s number 1, best-selling equestrian monthly.
Describe a typical reader for us:
Passionate about horses and riding, 30-something, enjoys hacking and the lower levels of competition riding.
What stories are you most interested in covering?
Our magazine is split into six sections – riding, mind, stable management, veterinary, shopping and equibuyer – so it covers every aspect of looking after your horse.
How do you decide the content and headlines?
Between the team and occasional features sent in from outside contributors.
How does the editorial process run? Do you have specific days when you focus on different aspects or is the planning on a much more ad-hoc basis?
We split the features between the team and features which need approval are generally done first.
Do you produce a features list?
Yes we do.
Do you use freelance contributions, and if so, are they for any particular section/type of work?
We welcome feature ideas, although the staff on Horse&Rider are all horsey and a lot of us have our own horses, so we don’t have much trouble thinking up great new ideas.
About PRs:
Do you work closely with PRs?
Yes.
What information/input from PRs is most useful to you?
Meeting deadlines and providing good quality, high resolution images and well-written copy.
What’s the best starting point for a PR who wants to tell you about their client?
Email nicky@djmurphy.co.uk.
Do you have a PR pet hate?
Asking me to contact the client direct.
When is the best time for PRs to contact you & when is your deadline for contributions?
It’s hard to say when it is a good time, as with magazines you can be snowed under with work all month. Deadlines are usually two months before the issue, so for the November issue, early September, for example.
About you:
Describe a typical day at work:
A catch up to find out the status of everything, to ensure all the features flow through smoothly.
What do you love about your work?
Writing and learning about my hobby all day long.
Where have you worked previously, and how did you end up in your current position?
I worked as Assistant Editor for PONY Magazine, then a Sub Editor for HORSE Magazine. I started at DJ Murphy as Editorial Assistant, and was offered the job based on my horsey experience and NDHMBS – National Diploma in Horse Management with Business Studies.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
If you’re not happy change it.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you do?
Work with horses outside.
What’s your idea of a relaxing day off?
A long ride on the common with my horse and my dog.
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[img|jpg|Nicky Moffatt and Horse&Rider]