Rachel Lloyd: The Economist’s Dynamic Deputy Culture Editor and Storytelling Visionary
Rachel Lloyd, a name synonymous with insightful cultural journalism and refined editorial leadership, has carved an impressive path within the British media landscape. Currently serving as the Deputy Culture Editor at The Economist, Rachel Lloyd stands out for her editorial finesse, critical perspective on literature and film, and her ability to shape conversations about contemporary storytelling. Alongside her editorial role, she co-hosts the popular Always Take Notes podcast, where she engages with some of the world’s most influential writers, editors, and creative thinkers.
Her career exemplifies the fusion of intellectual curiosity and disciplined craftsmanship—qualities that have made her one of the most respected figures in modern British media.
Early Life and Education of Rachel Lloyd
Academic Foundations
Rachel Lloyd’s academic journey reflects her lifelong engagement with the written word. She attended Withington Girls’ School, one of the United Kingdom’s most academically rigorous institutions, completing her schooling in 2011. Her intellectual prowess and literary passion led her to the University of Oxford, where she graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature.
At Oxford, Rachel Lloyd honed her analytical skills and cultivated an understanding of narrative structure, classic literature, and contemporary criticism—skills that would later inform her editorial work at The Economist and beyond.
Further Specialisation in Script Development
In pursuit of deeper creative understanding, she completed a Diploma in Script Development at the National Film & Television School (2020–2021). This advanced training equipped her with the tools to evaluate, edit, and shape stories for screen—an expertise that complements her journalistic perspective and podcast work focused on storytelling industries.
Rachel Lloyd’s Career Journey
Early Career and Internships
Before joining The Economist, Rachel Lloyd gained valuable experience across prestigious literary agencies in both the UK and the US. Her early roles included internships at AP Watt Ltd., United Agents Ltd., and the Zoe Pagnamenta Agency in New York. Each position deepened her understanding of publishing, author representation, and the intricate process of bringing stories from manuscript to market.
These experiences cultivated her editorial precision, professional discipline, and an appreciation for global publishing trends—qualities that continue to distinguish her editorial leadership.
Rise Through The Economist
Rachel Lloyd’s relationship with The Economist began in August 2015, when she joined as an Editorial Assistant. Her keen editorial eye and attention to linguistic nuance quickly propelled her to the role of Assistant Editor in January 2016, a position she held for over two years.
By May 2018, her exceptional contributions earned her the title of Deputy Culture Editor, a position she continues to hold with distinction. Over her ten-year tenure at the publication, Rachel Lloyd has become an essential figure in shaping The Economist’s cultural voice.
Her work encompasses books, television, film, and the arts, often exploring how global culture intersects with politics, identity, and technology. Rachel Lloyd’s editorial sensibility is marked by clarity, depth, and respect for narrative craft. She also plays a pivotal role in commissioning and editing The Economist’s cultural analyses and reviews, ensuring that each piece aligns with the publication’s globally renowned standards of insight and accuracy.
Co-Host of “Always Take Notes” Podcast
Since January 2020, Rachel Lloyd has co-hosted Always Take Notes, a celebrated podcast exploring the professional journeys of writers, editors, agents, and publishers. The show is widely regarded for its candid conversations that demystify the craft and business of writing.
Rachel’s interviewing style is intelligent, measured, and empathetic—reflecting her deep respect for creative process and storytelling. The podcast features high-profile guests from across the literary and journalistic world, making it a go-to resource for aspiring writers and media professionals.
Through Always Take Notes, Rachel Lloyd extends her influence beyond traditional journalism, fostering a community of creative practitioners and thinkers.
Professional Expertise and Skills
Rachel Lloyd’s expertise spans multiple dimensions of editorial and cultural production. Her key professional skills include:
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Editorial Management: Overseeing The Economist’s cultural coverage with precision and vision.
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Proofreading and Copy Editing: Ensuring linguistic accuracy, clarity, and tonal consistency.
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Script and Story Development: Applying her film and television background to enhance narrative coherence.
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Cultural Analysis: Contextualising literature and media within political and social frameworks.
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Podcast Production and Interviewing: Conducting insightful interviews with world-leading creatives.
Her multidisciplinary skill set makes her a uniquely versatile figure in the cultural journalism sphere.
Rachel Lloyd’s Impact at The Economist
Under Rachel Lloyd’s editorial guidance, The Economist’s culture section has strengthened its identity as a platform for global cultural insight. She curates content that bridges high culture and popular media, offering readers nuanced commentary on the forces shaping art, literature, and entertainment.
Her editorial contributions to The Economist’s annual roundups—such as “Best Fiction of 2023”, “Best Non-Fiction of 2023”, and “What Will Be the Bestsellers of the Coming Year?”—demonstrate her comprehensive grasp of publishing trends and her ability to balance intellectual critique with accessibility.
Rachel Lloyd’s approach to journalism reflects an understanding that culture is both reflection and driver of change. Her pieces invite readers to think critically about creative industries’ evolution in an era of digital disruption and shifting identities.
Rachel Lloyd and Storytelling Philosophy
At the core of Rachel Lloyd’s work is a belief in storytelling as a universal human act that connects ideas, emotions, and societies. Whether she’s editing a feature for The Economist or hosting Always Take Notes, her work revolves around a central question: What makes a story endure?
Her philosophy integrates literary insight with empathy, precision, and cross-disciplinary awareness. This blend allows her to interpret culture not merely as entertainment but as a vital space for dialogue, reflection, and collective imagination.
Rachel Lloyd’s Contributions to the Creative Industry
Through her editorial role and podcasting ventures, Rachel Lloyd has become an advocate for transparency in creative professions. By spotlighting the realities of publishing, film development, and journalism, she encourages inclusivity and demystifies paths for emerging creatives.
Her editorial influence ensures that The Economist remains a benchmark for thoughtful cultural commentary, while her podcast extends the conversation to the grassroots of creative production.
Moreover, her dual background in English Literature and Script Development positions her as a bridge between textual analysis and visual storytelling—a rare combination that enriches both her written and spoken work.
Rachel Lloyd: The Future of Cultural Commentary
In an era where journalism is rapidly transforming, Rachel Lloyd represents the adaptability and intellectual depth required to navigate the shifting media landscape. Her voice at The Economist is shaping how global audiences perceive art, literature, and film.
As Always Take Notes continues to grow in global popularity, she exemplifies how journalists can blend traditional expertise with modern platforms to engage broader audiences.
Her journey—from literary agencies to one of the world’s most respected publications—illustrates the power of perseverance, intellectual discipline, and storytelling passion.
Conclusion
Rachel Lloyd stands as a remarkable example of contemporary British journalism—combining academic excellence, creative intuition, and editorial authority. Her tenure at The Economist and her work on Always Take Notes have positioned her as a thought leader in cultural commentary and storytelling innovation.
As she continues to elevate discourse around writing, media, and culture, Rachel Lloyd remains a name that resonates with quality, integrity, and intellectual curiosity—a modern editor shaping how the world reads, listens, and reflects on its stories.
