Journals Commissioning Editor

A leading not for profit scholarly publisher in the environmental sciences is seeking a proactive and knowledgeable Journals Commissioning Editor to join their Journals team. This role will be hybrid, working 2 days a week from their London office and the remaining days at home.

Working closely with the Head of Journals, you will play a key role in shaping the content and strategic development of a portfolio of 12 established journals. This position combines commissioning, author engagement, and transfer desk oversight, ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for researchers across the publishing process.

About the Role

You will be responsible for commissioning high quality content, driving the Special Issues programme, and building strong relationships with editors, authors, and the wider research community. A significant part of the role involves conducting bibliometric research, identifying emerging topics, and approaching potential Guest Editors. You will also manage the day‑day running of the manuscript transfer desk, ensuring efficient workflows and timely responses to queries. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with subject‑matter expertise in water‑related sciences or engineering who is looking to deepen their experience in scholarly publishing.

Key Responsibilities

• Commission new journal content and deliver on annual commissioning targets
• Lead the development and delivery of Special Issues, from proposal to publication
• Provide a consultative, author focused service throughout submission and transfer processes
• Maintain an effective manuscript referral and transfer network across the portfolio
• Build strong relationships with editors, authors, and the research community
• Monitor trends, emerging topics, and key contributors in the field
• Collaborate with internal teams, including Books, Marketing, and Production

About You

• Specialist knowledge in water sciences, environmental science, freshwater ecology, civil/water engineering, or a closely related field. A PhD is preferred; a Master's degree will also be considered
• Experience in academic journal publishing, with an understanding of peer review, integrity issues, and open access
• Confident communicator with strong relationship building skills
• Analytical, inquisitive, and comfortable working independently
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage complex workflows
• Familiarity with bibliometric tools (e.g., Web of Science, Dimensions) is an advantage

** Inspired Search & Selection are a publishing recruitment specialist who operate an Equal Opportunities policy. We treat all employees and job applicants fairly and equally regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, age, disability or union membership status.

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