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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead editorial operations and manage a high-performing team to deliver quality healthcare publications.
- Company: Cochrane is a respected not-for-profit leader in evidence-based healthcare publishing.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fully remote role with a competitive salary and the chance to make a global impact.
- Why this job: Join a transformative mission in healthcare publishing and drive innovation in editorial processes.
- Qualifications: Significant editorial leadership experience, strong project management skills, and familiarity with digital publishing tools.
- Other info: This is a 24-month contract, perfect for those passionate about global health improvement.
The predicted salary is between 64000 - 66000 £ per year.
Inspired is proud to be the exclusive recruitment partner of Cochrane, a globally respected not-for-profit leader in evidence-based healthcare publishing. Cochrane is seeking an Interim Head of Editorial to lead its editorial operations during a critical and transformative period, in an initial contract of 24 months. This role is central to the strategic and operational delivery of high-quality systematic reviews, ensuring clarity, quality, and efficiency across the editorial workflow.
This is a fully remote position and can be based in the UK, Germany, or Denmark.
Details:
Salary: £64,000-£66,000
Contract: 24 months
Location: Home-based within the UK, Germany or Denmark
About the Role
Reporting to the Deputy for Editorial Operations and working closely with the Editor in Chief, you will serve as the executive lead for daily editorial operations within Cochrane’s Central Editorial Service (CES). This includes managing people, processes, and systems to deliver timely, high-quality editorial outcomes. You\’ll play a pivotal role in driving operational improvements, implementing Cochrane editorial policy, and advising on strategic decisions related to the development and delivery of Cochrane’s publication outputs.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Cochrane’s mission and ensure its editorial infrastructure supports its vision for the future.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and mentor a high-performing editorial team (4-6 direct reports, and around 20 indirect reports), ensuring equitable task allocation and professional development
- Own and optimise editorial workflows and processes, ensuring they are robust, efficient, and aligned with Cochrane’s policies
- Champion innovation and continuous improvement across editorial operations
- Oversee quality control of Cochrane’s published content, including high-profile or complex reviews
- Manage configuration and reporting needs within Editorial Manager, Cochrane’s editorial workflow system
- Collaborate across Cochrane to contribute operational expertise to strategic planning, including new journal products and expanded content types
- Advocate for the Central Editorial Service across internal and external stakeholders, fostering communication and transparency
- Represent the editorial function in strategic forums, including as part of the Editor in Chief’s core team
What We’re Looking For
- Significant experience in editorial leadership, ideally within STM journals publishing or evidence synthesis
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams, implement change, and manage editorial workflows at scale
- Strong project management and communication skills; comfortable working across cultures and disciplines
- Familiarity with editorial systems (ideally Editorial Manager) and digital publishing tools
- A proactive, strategic mindset and the ability to contribute to high-level planning
- Experience in the healthcare, academic, or charity sectors is highly desirable
- Knowledge of Cochrane’s editorial standards and methods (e.g., MECIR, GRADE) is a plus, but not essential
This role is ideal for an editorial leader with a passion for improving processes and supporting global health impact. If you\’re ready to play a key part in shaping the future of evidence-based healthcare publishing, we’d love to hear from you.
Head of Editorial employer: Inspired Selection
Contact Detail:
Inspired Selection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Editorial
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Cochrane's editorial standards and methods, such as MECIR and GRADE. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you align with their expectations but also demonstrate your commitment to their mission during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the STM publishing field, especially those who have experience with evidence synthesis. Engaging with industry peers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed editorial teams and improved workflows in previous roles. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Cochrane’s recent publications and strategic initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their current projects will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Editorial
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Editorial position at Cochrane. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in editorial leadership and project management.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly showcase your significant experience in editorial leadership, particularly within STM journals or evidence synthesis. Highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage workflows effectively.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for improving editorial processes and supporting global health impact. Mention your familiarity with editorial systems and how your strategic mindset aligns with Cochrane’s mission.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an editorial role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Inspired Selection
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As the Head of Editorial, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles, focusing on how you've mentored teams and managed workflows effectively. Highlight specific examples where your leadership made a significant impact.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Editorial Standards
Familiarity with Cochrane’s editorial standards and methods is a plus. Brush up on MECIR and GRADE guidelines, and be ready to discuss how you would implement these in your role. Showing that you understand the importance of quality control will set you apart.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
This role involves contributing to high-level planning and operational improvements. Think about past experiences where you've successfully implemented change or driven innovation. Be ready to share your strategic mindset and how it aligns with Cochrane's mission.
✨Emphasise Your Project Management Skills
Strong project management skills are essential for this position. Prepare to discuss how you've managed complex projects, particularly in editorial settings. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to oversee multiple tasks while ensuring quality and efficiency.
