Publishing Assistant

Publishing Assistant

Full-Time 31500 - 38500 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support the BMJ Publishing Team with administrative tasks and project work.
  • Company: Join a leading global healthcare knowledge provider, publishing impactful medical journals.
  • Benefits: Flexible work, generous pension contributions, discounts, and 25 days holiday.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Gain insights into the academic journal industry while making a difference in healthcare.
  • Qualifications: Experience in publishing, proficiency in software, and strong communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.

In this hybrid role, you will support colleagues from the BMJ Publishing Team with administrative tasks related to the publication of a portfolio of leading biomedical journals. As a vital member of the team, you will bring structure and order to core publishing processes, providing the crucial back office support that enables the busy team to deliver their objectives. You will have the opportunity to be engaged in project work, gain a greater understanding of the academic journal industry more widely, and develop knowledge and skills to enable you to progress in your publishing career.

Job purpose

The Publishing Assistant provides support across a large portfolio of specialist biomedical journals. This role is an essential part of the wider Publishing Team and involves assisting the Head of Portfolio, Senior Publisher, Publishers and Publishing Executive. This is a varied and busy role that requires excellent organisational, administrative and communication skills. Duties are wide-ranging, but include:

  • Research and data collection to aid journal development across the portfolio.
  • Maintaining and updating journal records, finances, information files and websites.
  • Organising and attending a range of internal and external meetings.

Responsibilities

  • Financial administration: Process supplier invoices based on payment schedules. Keep payment files up to date and handle confidential information in line with regulations. Ensure all payments relating to meetings are accounted for.
  • Journal data and desk research: Collate regular and ad hoc data for general reporting, meeting reports and strategic development plans. Research competitors and landscape information to support new initiatives.
  • Meeting management: Arrange suitable meeting dates with all attendees. Coordinate meeting logistics including videoconferencing, catering, reception passes, travel and accommodation. Attend and take meeting minutes when required.
  • Editorial team administration: Maintain editorial board lists and conflict of interest statements on internal systems. Ensure new team members are set up appropriately. Keep websites up to date with team changes. Notify other departments of changes.
  • Website maintenance: Update website information as required by the Publishing Team.
  • Social and multimedia management: Assist external editors with organising podcast interviews. Upload new podcasts, videos and blog posts as required.
  • Other: Cover for the departmental Publishing Administrator or Publishing Team members when required. Participate in ad hoc Publishing Team projects.

Skills, Experiences & Qualification

  • Relevant experience in a scholarly publishing environment is desirable.
  • Proficient in standard software packages, such as Microsoft Office or Google Suite; basic web skills desirable (e.g. WordPress).
  • Ability to research information independently.
  • Ability to prioritise workload.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Self-motivated and results-focused.

Why work for us?

Help us create a healthier world. We are a global healthcare knowledge provider. We publish The BMJ, one of the world’s most impactful medical journals and over 70 influential speciality journals. We offer digital tools to help health professionals worldwide tackle critical healthcare challenges.

Flexible Work and Workplace Perks

  • Generous double-matching employer pension contribution, up to 12%.
  • Discounted dental and travel insurance.
  • Seven x salary life assurance cover and a generous income protection package.
  • Discounted gym membership, cycle-to-work and season ticket loan.
  • Discounts for retail and leisure products through yourReward.
  • Work-life balance and wellbeing: Twenty-five days holiday + bank holidays + a BMJ Day off. Additional holiday through long service; buy up to 5 additional days. Leave for moving house, volunteering or getting married. Concierge service. Seniorcare by Lottie.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are not buzzwords to us, but fundamental company priorities. We believe that a diverse workforce brings unique strengths and insights, enabling us to better serve our customers and drive positive change in our industry. If you are from an under-represented or historically marginalised community, we are particularly interested in hearing from you. Join our employee-led networks focusing on Gender, Race and Cultural Diversity, Sexual Orientation, Mental Health and Well-being, Parents and Carers and Age.

Disability Confident Committed employer

Learning & Development

Career Coaching Opportunities to pursue professional development.

Publishing Assistant employer: BMA

BMA Cymru Wales is an exceptional employer that values its staff by fostering a supportive and collaborative work culture in the heart of Cardiff. With opportunities for professional growth and development, employees are encouraged to enhance their skills while contributing to meaningful initiatives that support members and stakeholders. The organisation also offers a range of benefits, including flexible working arrangements and a commitment to employee well-being, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding career in administration.

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Contact Details:

BMA Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Publishing Assistant

Dive Into the Publishing Community

Get involved with local or online publishing communities. Join forums, attend literary festivals, or participate in panel discussions. This can be a goldmine for meeting industry professionals and hearing about opportunities that aren't advertised yet.

Stay Updated with Industry Trends

Follow leading publishing media channels on social media, like Twitter and Instagram. See what tactics and content formats are currently trending. This knowledge can help you tailor your discussions when you're networking or at interviews with companies like BMA.

Make Your Passion Visible

If you have a blog or a social media presence focused on books or publishing, use it! Share your thoughts on recent publications, trends in the industry, or interviews with authors. This can showcase your passion and knowledge, making you stand out as a candidate.

Hunt for Opportunities on Company Websites

While job boards are useful, don’t forget to go directly to company websites, like BMA. They often post openings there first. Plus, you might find job descriptions that give insight into what skills they really value, which can help you ace that interview.

We think you need these skills to ace Publishing Assistant

Communication Skills
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Adaptability
Problem-Solving Skills
Teamwork
Compassion

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Writing Style:In the publishing-media world, your writing style is your signature. Make sure your CV highlights relevant writing experiences, whether that's published articles, blog posts, or even social media content. Give us a glimpse of your voice and flair for storytelling right from the start!

Include Relevant Projects:Don’t just list your roles; include specific projects you've worked on that demonstrate your skills in editing, research, or content creation. If you've contributed to a magazine or worked on a publication, make that front and centre! It shows you've got hands-on experience in the industry, which we absolutely love.

Tailor Your Cover Letter:Let’s be honest: a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity. Take the time to craft a letter that speaks to why you’re passionate about this role at BMA. Mention what excites you about the publishing-media industry and how your skills align with the job description. We want to see that enthusiasm!

Format Matters!:In the publishing-media sector, presentation is key. Ensure your CV and cover letter are well-organised and visually appealing. Use headings, bullet points, and a clean layout. This isn't just about aesthetics — it shows your attention to detail and professionalism, which we really appreciate at BMA.

How to prepare for a job interview at BMA

Know Your Stuff: Be Ready on Industry Trends

Get yourself clued up on the latest trends in the publishing-media world. Think about how digital transformation is impacting the industry, and be ready to chat about relevant examples. This shows you're not just passionate but also informed!

Showcase Your Creativity with a Portfolio

Bring along a portfolio that showcases your writing, editing, or design work. Since it’s a full-time role, they’ll want to see how your style fits their brand at BMA. Tailor your presentation to their projects for maximum impact.

Brush Up on Editing Techniques

Expect some technical questions about editing styles, proofing techniques, and style guides. They might ask you to solve a practical problem or provide feedback on a piece—know the tools and software commonly used in the industry, and be prepared to discuss them!

Express Your Passion for Storytelling

In the publishing-media field, storytelling is key. Be ready to discuss what stories inspire you and why you want to join the team at BMA. Let your enthusiasm shine through; they want to know you're genuinely interested in contributing to their narratives!