Senior Publisher – Social Sciences Journals

We are pleased to present a comprehensive review of the Senior Publisher role within the Social Sciences Journals team. This opportunity is ideal for experienced publishing professionals seeking to make a significant impact in a dynamic and forward-thinking environment.

This role is situated within the STMJ (Science, Technology, and Medical Journals) team, a critical division dedicated to publishing high-quality, peer-reviewed research that propels advancements across scientific and medical disciplines. The team fosters a collaborative spirit, working closely with authors, editors, reviewers, and societies to ensure the integrity and reach of published work. By embracing innovation in editorial workflows and publishing technology, the STMJ team empowers global research communities to discover, evaluate, and disseminate knowledge that ultimately improves lives.

About the Role: Senior Publisher (Social Sciences Journals)

The Social Sciences Journals team is actively seeking a Senior Publisher to spearhead a portfolio of international proprietary and society journals focused on Education. This role is pivotal in driving the expansion of networks, partnerships, and market share, directly aligning with the overarching STMJ strategy and objectives.

A key aspect of this position involves fostering innovation and creativity to cultivate the growth and development of the "Research Elements" title, specifically "Societal Impacts." This initiative holds immense potential, and the ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about experimentation and exploring approaches beyond traditional journal management processes. Success in this role hinges on a deep understanding of the importance of maintaining robust networks, not only within the existing Elsevier ecosystem but also externally, engaging with editors, authors, and societies.

Leveraging extensive global publishing industry experience, you will be adept at participating in complex industry discussions with high-level stakeholders. You will take a leading role in forging connections with key institutional, society, and funder stakeholders relevant to the Social Sciences landscape.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Market Awareness: Staying abreast of market developments to identify and map evolving needs and emerging business opportunities.
• Portfolio Strategy: Combining in-depth market knowledge with data analysis to formulate a competitive portfolio strategy that meets STMJ targets.
• Portfolio Development: Overseeing organic content growth and potential title acquisitions. This includes driving innovation in content formats, extensions, and channels, proactively pushing commercial boundaries to translate growth opportunities and customer needs into tangible products and revenues.
• Relationship Building: Maintaining close contact with editors and editorial boards within the journal portfolio, and actively engaging with a broad spectrum of stakeholders across research communities, including research institutes, societies, and funding bodies.
• Teamwork and Mentoring: Collaborating effectively with team members and other publishing colleagues on shared projects and goals. You will serve as a role model, coaching and developing others to achieve success. Participation in cross-departmental and organizational projects, representing STMJ and contributing to new product, service, or business model pilots, and process improvements, is also a key component.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Strategic Impact: The opportunity to directly influence the direction and growth of a significant journal portfolio within the Social Sciences, particularly in the burgeoning area of societal impacts.
• Innovation Focus: A mandate to experiment and innovate beyond traditional publishing models, offering a platform for creative problem-solving and forward-thinking strategies.
• Network Expansion: The chance to build and leverage high-level professional relationships with key stakeholders across academic institutions, societies, and funding bodies globally.
• Leadership and Mentoring: The role provides avenues for leadership, acting as a role model and contributing to the development of junior colleagues.
• Global Reach: Exposure to international markets and diverse research communities, fostering a global perspective in your publishing career.
• Career Development: Access to extensive learning and development resources, supporting continuous professional growth and skill enhancement.
• Work-Life Balance: The organization is committed to promoting a healthy work/life balance with various wellbeing initiatives, flexible working options, and benefits designed to support personal and professional goals.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Industry Experience: A strong background in STM publishing, including experience with open access and society publishing, is crucial. A proven track record of achieving goals and making a tangible difference is essential.
• Networking Prowess: Exceptional networking and communication skills in English are paramount for engaging with diverse stakeholders at various levels.
• Adaptability and Resilience: The ability to navigate change, manage multiple priorities simultaneously, and work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a deadline-driven, multicultural environment is vital.
• Data-Driven Approach: A keen interest in new online developments and a data-driven mindset are important for strategic decision-making and portfolio management.
• Commercial Acumen: Financial and commercial awareness, coupled with strategic foresight and a strong business development orientation, will drive success in this role.
• Proactive Mindset: A results-oriented approach with a strong "can-do" attitude is expected to drive growth and overcome challenges.
• International Travel: Willingness to undertake international travel (average 2-4 trips per year) is a requirement for relationship building and market engagement.

This role is an exceptional opportunity for a driven and experienced publishing professional to shape the future of Social Sciences publishing and contribute to advancing knowledge that benefits society. If you are looking for a role that offers both significant responsibility and the chance to innovate, this position warrants serious consideration for your career trajectory.