Desk Editor, Encyclopedia


Company: Edward Elgar Publishing
Location: Camberley, UK
Is the role full time? Yes
Is the role permanent? Yes
Salary: From £28,000 per annum dependent on experience
Contact: [email protected]
Closing date: 14 August 2026

Job description

We are an award-winning international publisher based in the UK and the US. As an independent publisher we offer a uniquely responsive service tailored to our authors. Our forward-thinking and agile approach has driven significant growth in recent years, allowing us to deliver a world-class publishing service. We are committed to prioritizing the wellbeing of our staff by fostering a flexible, supportive and encouraging work culture.

We are looking for an experienced desk editor to join our busy editorial team; knowledge or experience of academic publishing would be a bonus. The successful candidate will be responsible for the editorial administration and processing of EEP titles, with a focus on multi-volume encyclopedia. They will manage projects from manuscript to final pdf/XML file, while liaising with editors, production and editorial staff, suppliers and freelancers, and will need to be careful and methodical as well as flexible and adaptable.

Excellent communication, organizational and digital skills are essential requirements. The successful candidate will have knowledge of Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat and will demonstrate enthusiasm to develop their skillset. Thorough working knowledge of InDesign and Photoshop are also required. Some knowledge of XML would be an advantage.

This is a full-time position, working 35 hours per week, based at our office in Camberley, Surrey, UK. We offer a hybrid working pattern and working arrangements will be discussed at interview.

Edward Elgar Publishing is committed to promoting equality of opportunity and to creating an inclusive and diverse working environment where all individuals can thrive. We encourage applications from all sections of the community.

The desk editor, encyclopedia is responsible for the editorial administration and editorial processing of EEP titles, with a focus on multi volume encyclopedia, from manuscript file to pdf/XML file.

Routine duties involve:

  • Liaison with Senior Desk Editor, Encyclopedia and the Multi-Volume Encyclopedia Commissioning Editor
  • Receiving files from Commissioning Editor, Senior Desk Editor, Encyclopedia or Managing Editor
  • Processing multi-volume Encyclopedia files in batches and systematically logging the progress of each batch
  • Checking encyclopedia files
  • Preparing for and loading files to typesetting software system
  • Preparing files for typesetting and typesetting using specified system
  • Collating proof corrections
  • Checking final revised proofs
  • Checking uploaded XML and pdf files on ElgarOnline
  • Copy editing of cover copy, proofreading of cover text and checking final cover artwork
  • Commissioning freelancers
  • Dealing with queries
  • Authorising invoices
  • Liaison with authors, suppliers and colleagues
  • Keeping database records up to date
  • Using Manuscript Manager to manage some Encyclopedia titles when appropriate
  • Digital filing using Google Drive
  • Working to agreed schedules and budgets
  • Undertaking other tasks which may occasionally be required to ensure the smooth running of the editorial production office

Entries for Multi-volume Encyclopedia titles are produced in batches on a rolling basis during a 12-24 month submission window. Non multi-volume titles are produced in around 6 months from receipt of files.

The above is not an exhaustive list and the duties in the job description may be revised following discussion with the managing editors and head of editorial services.

The desk editor, encyclopedia reports to the Senior Desk Editor, Encyclopedia and a managing editor.

To submit your application, please email Miss Olivia McAdam with your CV and covering letter.