This role offers an exciting opportunity to join our expanding Editorial department, based in Cheltenham. Whether you're aiming to build a career in publishing or exploring a new path, this position provides valuable experience within a supportive team of Editorial Assistants. Publishing experience is not required - we're looking for a team player who is eager to learn and grow in a dynamic environment.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
* Adaptability to learn new software, digital workflows, and platforms
* Strong organizational, communication, and self-motivation skills
* Exceptional attention to detail and multitasking ability
* Interest in social sciences and/or law
* Strong academic background
Edward Elgar Publishing is an award-winning international publisher based in the UK and US. As an independent company, we offer a responsive, author-focused service driven by a forward-thinking, agile approach. We have experienced strong growth while fostering a flexible, supportive work culture that prioritizes staff wellbeing. We are committed to equality of opportunity and to creating an inclusive, diverse environment where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Job Description
The Editorial Assistant (EA) is responsible for administrative tasks as well as the smooth progression of manuscripts from submission through to the initial stages of the production process, excluding copy-editing or proofreading. Core functions include maintaining in-house databases, updating book data, and coordinating between key stakeholders including authors, commissioning editors, and other teams. EAs should possess excellent organizational, problem-solving, communication, and time-management skills, as well as an aptitude for acquiring new digital skills.
Key Responsibilities
* Under the supervision of the team managers, take responsibility for the final manuscript once received in-house and ensure that the manuscript files and accompanying information uploaded to our manuscript workflow system are in a high-quality state ready for production.
* Liaising with the respective commissioning editor regarding manuscripts received in-house to ensure any issues are discussed and resolved early that might otherwise affect production, publication, or marketing. Inform all departments if important information has changed since the contract was signed (e.g., title, authors' address, additional authors).
* Dealing with any queries from the author(s) during manuscript preparation and regarding the production process.
* Performing a thorough preliminary file check; resolving issues such as copyright, accessibility requirements, GDPR infringements, missing metadata, and formatting errors to facilitate copy editing.
* Maintaining in-house databases to brief our Production department on publication details (e.g., format, print run, index preparation, unusual features).
* Ensuring manuscript compliance with legal accessibility requirements.
* Accurate preparation and formatting of manuscript files, and uploading these to our publishing platform.
* Preparing a book cover design brief and sourcing images where applicable.
* Liaising with Marketing for promotional quotes, title changes, and promotional materials for conferences or author communication.
* Coordinating with Accounts regarding buybacks, subventions, Open Access, and invoicing.
* Writing book descriptions for covers and the website.
* Approaching academics for endorsement quotes.
* Proofing final book covers and marketing materials.
* Archiving documents on the Cloud and performing administrative tasks as needed.
* Supporting commissioning editors when required.
* Answering external calls when necessary.
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