JOB SUMMARY

The Desk Editor (Finalisation and Publishing) oversees the final stages of manuscript production from acceptance to publishing and manages a small team of production coordinators. This role requires managing relationships with contractors while also performing quality assurance to ensure the final product meets the journals high standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage a small team of production coordinators providing guidance supervision and professional development opportunities.
  
• Oversee the stages of manuscript production from acceptance to publication.
  
• Create assign and manage work orders ensuring clear communication of tasks and expectations.
  
• Update production schedules and manage contract deliverables ensuring all work are completed on time and to specification.
  
• Perform meticulous quality assurance of work ensuring that the final product meets the journals standards for quality and accuracy.
  
• Request and manage Article Processing Charge (APC) invoices for all manuscripts in the production process.
  
• Liaise with authors vendors and internal teams to resolve any issues that arise during the finalisation and publishing process.
  
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of style guides and processes to ensure consistency across all published materials.
  
• Act as a point of contact for authors responding to queries and providing updates on the status of their manuscript.
  
• Collaborate with other departments such as the Submissions and Peer Review Copy Editing Proofreading and Typesetting teams to ensure a smooth and efficient publishing process.
  
• Keep uptodate with the latest industry trends and best practices in open access publishing.
  
• Proofread manuscripts at a professional level to ensure errorfree content.
  

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in a related field or equivalent work experience; a graduate degree is a plus.
  
• Experience in academic publishing particularly in an openaccess environment.
  
• Demonstrated experience managing a small team and contractors or leading projects with strong leadership and communication skills.
  
• Experience in performance management and staff development with a commitment to fostering a positive and productive work environment.
  
• Experience with performance tracking and analysis with a keen understanding of key performance indicators in the publishing industry.
  
• Experience in quality assurance and a keen eye for detail to minimize the need for corrections and errata.
  
• Proficient in using various referencing styles including Vancouver APA and Harvard.
  
• Proficient in using the Oxford house style guide.
  
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  
• Strong understanding of the publishing process from manuscript acceptance to publication.
  
• Proficient in using publishing software and systems.
  
• Excellent English language skills (read write and speak).
  
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  
• A valid driver s license.
  

Benefits

In applying for this position please attach the following:

• A comprehensive CV;
  
• Names email addresses and telephone details of three referees we have permission to contact.
  

Other important information:

• All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments and psychometric tests as part of the selection process.
  
• Applications will only be considered after the closing date or if they comply with at least the minimum requirements.
  
• Ms Hannah Boast for applicationrelated enquiries.
  
• Should you have not heard from us within six weeks of your application please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.
  
• AOSIS is committed to equality employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of AOSIS and its Employment Equity goals and targets preference may be given but is not limited to candidates from underrepresented designated groups.
  
• All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials and criminal and credit checks (if applicable).
  
• AOSIS reserves the right not to fill the advertised positions.
  
• Applicants should be South African citizens permanent residents with a barcoded ID or possess a valid work visa or permit.