Journals Commissioning Editor

About the role

We are seeking a Journals Commissioning Editor to lead the acquisition and development of high-quality research content for our environmental and water sciences portfolio. Based in London with hybrid working, you will partner with the Head of Journals and collaborate closely with authors, editors and subject communities to deliver an outstanding publishing experience.

Key responsibilities

• Attract and secure strong manuscript submissions to meet annual commissioning targets and journal KPIs.
• Develop and manage special-issue programmes, identifying guest editors and overseeing proposal and delivery timelines.
• Coordinate manuscript transfers across the journal portfolio through an efficient referral network.
• Build and nurture relationships with editors, authors and research communities to maintain a robust content pipeline.
• Provide consultative, author-focused guidance throughout the submission and publication process.
• Utilise research and bibliographic databases to pinpoint emerging topics, communities and high-potential contributors.
• Collaborate with the Books Commissioning Editor to align content strategy across publishing lines.

Required profile

• Proven experience in academic journal publishing with direct commissioning or editorial responsibilities.
• Familiarity with water sciences, environmental sciences, physical geography or related disciplines.
• Strong influencing, negotiation and relationship-building skills with academic stakeholders.
• Commercial awareness and ability to meet performance metrics.
• Customer-focused mindset with a passion for delivering an excellent author experience.

Required skills

• Use of research and bibliographic databases such as Web of Science.