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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commissioning for high-quality history titles and develop strong author networks.
- Company: Prestigious university press with a global reputation for excellence.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape a respected history list and make an impact in publishing.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in commissioning with deep knowledge of modern history.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on equal opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
A prestigious university press with a global reputation for excellence is seeking a Senior Commissioning Editor in Modern History to shape and grow one of the most respected history lists in publishing. This is a rare opportunity to lead commissioning for a list known for combining scholarly authority with wide general reader appeal. The role will be based on a hybrid basis from the Central London office.
Key Responsibilities
- Commission ca. 15 high‑quality titles per year
- Develop strong author, agent, and academic networks
- Provide structural and developmental editorial guidance
- Manage acquisitions, contracts, and profitability
- Oversee design briefs, metadata, sales materials, and catalogue copy
- Present titles at sales conferences and contribute to list strategy
- Maintain and refresh the backlist, including new editions and paperbacks
About You
You are an experienced commissioning editor with a proven track record in history or related humanities fields. You bring:
- Deep knowledge of modern history and the scholarly/trade market
- Strong academic and agent networks
- Sharp editorial judgement and an entrepreneurial eye for opportunity
- The ability to spot books that combine authority with accessibility
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and project management skills
- Confidence managing P&Ls and navigating contracts
- A proactive, organised, ideas‑driven approach
- The ability to thrive under pressure and meet deadlines
Experience across both academic and trade publishing is an advantage.
Senior Commissioning Editor (Trade & Academic) employer: Inspired Selection
Contact Detail:
Inspired Selection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commissioning Editor (Trade & Academic)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the publishing world, especially those in history and academia. We all know that who you know can sometimes be just as important as what you know.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your deep knowledge of modern history and your experience in commissioning. We want to see that passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you spot a book idea that combines scholarly authority with general appeal, don’t hesitate to pitch it. We love seeing candidates who take initiative and think outside the box.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for talented individuals who can help us shape the future of publishing.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Commissioning Editor (Trade & Academic)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your experience in commissioning and your knowledge of modern history. Highlight any relevant projects or titles you've worked on that showcase your editorial judgement and ability to connect with authors and agents.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for history publishing and how your skills align with the role. Don’t forget to mention specific achievements that demonstrate your proactive and organised approach.
Showcase Your Networks: We want to see your connections! Mention any strong author, agent, or academic networks you have. This will show us that you’re well-equipped to commission high-quality titles and maintain those vital relationships.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Inspired Selection
✨Know Your History
Brush up on modern history and be ready to discuss key trends, influential figures, and recent publications. This will show your deep knowledge of the subject and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Network Like a Pro
Prepare to talk about your existing author, agent, and academic networks. Highlight specific relationships that could benefit the role and demonstrate how you can leverage these connections for commissioning new titles.
✨Showcase Your Editorial Skills
Be ready to discuss your editorial judgement and provide examples of how you've successfully guided projects from concept to publication. This is your chance to shine a light on your ability to spot books that balance scholarly authority with general appeal.
✨Master the Business Side
Familiarise yourself with managing P&Ls and contracts. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated these aspects in previous roles, as this will show your entrepreneurial mindset and organisational skills.