Editorial Assistant

Is the role full time? Yes

Is the role permanent? Yes

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.

This is a full-time, office-based role in Cheltenham.

Key responsibilities:

Under the supervision of team managers, take responsibility for the final manuscript once received in-house, ensuring that manuscript files and accompanying information uploaded to our manuscript workflow system are in a high-quality state ready for production. In detail, tasks include:

• Liaising with the respective commissioning editor regarding manuscripts received in-house to ensure any issues that might affect production, publication, or marketing are discussed and resolved at an early stage. Informing all departments if important information has altered since the contract was signed (e.g., title, author's address, additional authors).
• Dealing with any queries from the author(s) during the manuscript preparation and regarding the production process
• Performing a thorough preliminary file check; resolving any problems (such as copyright issues, accessibility requirements, GDPR infringements, missing metadata and formatting errors), queries and/or potential difficulties to allow for copy editing
• Completion and maintenance of in-house databases to brief our production department on the details of the publication of the book (for example: format, print run, preparation of index, unusual features etc.)
• Ensuring the manuscript complies with legal accessibility requirements
• Accurate preparation and formatting of manuscript files, as well as responsibility for uploading these digital files to our dedicated publishing platform
• Writing book descriptions for book covers and the website
• Preparing a book cover design brief and where applicable, sourcing and supplying the image for the designers
• Approaching academics to provide endorsement quotes for books
• Liaising with Marketing providing accurate and timely information of interest to them – for example endorsement quotes, changes of title and requesting promotional materials for books for to take to conferences or to send to authors
• Providing additional support to the commissioning editors when required
• Archiving documents on the Cloud, and related administrative work, when required
• Liaising with Accounts regarding buybacks, subventions, Open Access and invoicing
• Proofing final book covers and other marketing materials
• Answering the external phone when required
• Helping to train new team members

This role presents an exciting opportunity to join our expanding Editorial department, in the vibrant town of Cheltenham. Whether you're looking to build a career in publishing or explore a new path, this position offers 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 and friendly environment.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Strong academic background
• Demonstrable interest in publishing
• Interest in social sciences and/or law
• Exceptional multitasking ability and attention to detail
• Excellent organizational, self-motivation and communication skills
• Strong digital skills - including proficiency in Microsoft Word, with the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new software, digital workflows and platforms

EEP 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've 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.

For a full job description and information on the benefits of working at EEP or to apply, please contact Miss Olivia McAdam with your CV and covering letter by clicking on Apply Now. Please advise in your covering letter if you have used AI to help prepare your application.