Director of Publishing and Scientific Affairs

Morgan Healey Ltd; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading publishing organization based in Bristol is seeking a Director of Publishing & Scientific Affairs. This influential role involves leading the publishing strategy, managing Open Access transitions, and overseeing a dedicated team. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in STM journal publishing, a strong financial acumen, and a passion for advancing scientific communication. Competitive salary and hybrid working model offered.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in STM journal publishing.
• Proven track record in senior leadership roles.
• Strong understanding of the Open Access landscape.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Society’s publishing strategy.
• Drive transition to Open Access.
• Represent the Society externally and lead the team.

Skills

Leadership in STM journal publishing

Financial management

Experience with Open Access

Editorial management

Committee engagement

Job description

Morgan Healey Retained Assignment Location: Hybrid / Bristol (Tuesday & Wednesday in the office) Salary: Excellent Basic + Benefits

The Society for Endocrinology (SfE) is a leading UK membership organisation representing scientists, clinicians, and healthcare professionals working in the field of hormones and related biomedical sciences. Our mission is to advance endocrine science and improve health by promoting research, education, and professional collaboration. Publishing lies at the heart of this mission. Through our journals and our publishing arm, Bioscientifica, we disseminate world‑class research and generate vital income that supports the Society’s charitable work.

The Director of Publishing & Scientific Affairs is a key member of the Society’s Executive Leadership Team, responsible for delivering the Society’s strategic objectives in publishing and scientific engagement. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will lead a team of around 18 staff, overseeing a portfolio that includes the Society’s journals, publishing partnerships, and scientific affairs activities.

This is a broad and influential leadership role combining commercial publishing oversight with the strategic advancement of endocrine science and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Society’s publishing strategy to maximise long‑term value, reach, and impact.
• Drive a successful and financially sustainable transition to Open Access.
• Act as Account Director for publishing partners and co‑owning societies.
• Provide leadership for the Society’s adoption of new platforms (including SilverChair) and explore the potential of AI and emerging technologies.
• Champion editorial excellence, building strong relationships with Editors-in-Chief and editorial boards.
• Oversee scientific affairs, ensuring alignment with the Society’s goals and enhancing engagement with research‑active members.
• Represent the Society externally, promoting its publishing and scientific reputation.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a high‑performing team, fostering collaboration across the organisation.

About You

You will bring significant experience in STM journal publishing, ideally with exposure to society or not‑for‑profit environments. You combine commercial acumen with strategic vision, and you can navigate the evolving landscape of Open Access and digital publishing with confidence. You are a proven leader, someone who empowers teams, builds trust with editors and volunteers, and thrives on balancing scientific purpose with business delivery.

Skills & Experience

• Proven senior leadership in STM journal publishing (editorial, production, sales, marketing).
• Strong financial management skills, including P&L responsibility.
• Experience leading Open Access transitions.
• Proven ability to manage Editors‑in‑Chief and editorial boards.
• Understanding of committee and volunteer engagement in membership or charitable settings.