Editorial expertise when you need it

Hi, I'm Kelly.


If you've reached this page, you'll be interested in finding out more about my editing and proofreading services. Take a look below for more information about working with me.


If you'd like a quick chat about your project, you can book a short call with me.


Click below to send me a message and I'll come straight back to you.

 

Get in touch
Kelly Owen profile photo looking directly at the camera

I've been an editor longer than I can remember and, in 2004, I took my passion for perfection into a full-time career as a professional proofreader and editor. Here's some quick stats about me:


  • I started my career as a design agency Account Manager and, later, Publications Manager, working with clients such as Cadbury-Schweppes, KP Foods, Disneyland Paris, Westminster City Council and Bath Tourism Bureau, among others. I was also the Publications Officer for Natural England for seven years before going solo.



  • Ultimate Proof became Limited in 2011 and I've worked on countless documents and subject matters since – aiming to go above and beyond expectations in all aspects of my service.


  • With experience on both the supplier and client side, I understand the needs of businesses during the publishing process and the importance of accurate communications and marketing material – as well as an efficient turnaround.


  • Today, I have established a demonstrable reputation for delivering high-quality work and building long-term relationships with my clients – a number of whom have been with me for over a decade. 


Get in touch

What you get from working with me


  • A first-class job. While I aim to work as swiftly as possible, I don't sacrifice quality and will prioritise delivering to you on time and at a high-standard. I also guarantee your project will be worked on by a professional human editor. Quality comes first, every time.


  • A fair and professional rate. My fees are charged in line with industry recommendations, and reflect my extensive editorial skills, experience and training.


  • A Professional Member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP). This standard is for editors and proofreaders who have established careers in the sector and are recognised for their expertise as highly skilled professionals. I am committed to its Professional Practice Code.


  • Business publishing experience. My 28-year career spans account management in publishing (client side) and graphic design (agency side).


  • Industry-recognised training and CPD. My qualifications include a Diploma with distinction in proofreading, related training in software applications and processes, higher education courses, plus a commitment to CPD.


  • Extensive client portfolio. My project list covers a wide range of subject areas, while my client testimonials offer reassurance of the high standard and reliability of my service, the majority of which are from repeat customers.


  • Complete service. My services include all the above and below points, as well as providing you with a clearly marked-up proof, a summary of proofreading amends and style guide notes, where relevant.


Get in touch
A double quote mark inside a speech bubble grapic


Kelly fully understood the project requirements: checking against multiple documents, hundreds of stakeholder comments and several proofs, while being flexible throughout this time critical project. Ultimate Proof has proven to be an invaluable resource to us.


Corporate Communications Manager

University of Portsmouth




*****




Kelly was a delight to work with at Superdry. Efficient and with fierce attention to detail, Kelly edited and proofed large documents as well as short blogs offering solid feedback that ensured all copy was powerful.


For a brand such as Superdry, Kelly's professional approach to work and deep understanding of the power of language, her feedback was indispensable.


Global Social Media Manager
Superdry



Double speech marks set in a speech bubble graphic


Kelly is responsive, helpful, and highly professional, while also being easy to collaborate with. Her insightful feedback and attention to detail elevated my work in ways I hadn’t imagined.


If you’re looking for someone who combines expertise, professionalism, and a sincere commitment to your vision, I can’t recommend Kelly highly enough.


M Morris

Early Years Education author

A professional, confidential service backed by robust systems


  • Availability is assured. If I am unable to complete the work myself, my small pool of specialist freelancers are on hand to help. So you don't need to worry about fitting into my schedule or if you have a large, multi-file project – we can handle it!


  • You can trust that the professional proofreader working on your project has been carefully selected, is industry qualified and has a breadth of knowledge and experience.


  • I oversee everything and will personally review all subcontracted work (where relevant) and return your project to you on time and to your specific requirements.


  • Ultimate Proof Ltd holds professional indemnity insurance with PolicyBee, is protected by ESET digital cyber security software and uses Xero for accounting processes.


More client feedback

Professional qualifications

Memberships


Formal training

  • Level 4 Diploma in Proofreading (Distinction) (NCC, online)
  • Complete Proofreader (Chapterhouse, online)


Courses and CPD

  • Marketing Fundamentals (Chartered Institute of Marketing, online)
  • Word for Practical Editing (Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading, online)
  • Editorial Style (The Publishing Training Centre, online)
  • Editing References (The Publishing Training Centre, online)
  • Production Management for Print (London College of Marketing Technology, (in-house)
  • Project Management (in-house)
  • Adobe Acrobat 6.0 Professional (in-house)
  • Plain English Campaign Document Design (in-house)
  • Writing for the Web (in-house)

Interesting fact about Kelly

I was a finalist in the 2018 JustGiving Awards – shortlisted out of almost 40,000 entries to be one of 16 finalists – for writing and self-publishing a children’s book, The Dragonfly Story, to support bereaved families.




Career overview

  • Managing Director
    Ultimate Proof Ltd

  • Communications Officer
    Diocese of Gloucester

  • Publishing Officer
    Natural England

  • Publications Manager
    Centurion Publications

  • Account Manager
    Pritchards Creative Communications