Morgan Healey Exclusive
Location: UK
Salary: Six-Figure Salary

Our client, a global STM publisher, requires a new Head of Publishing to lead one of the largest revenue streams while maintaining the quality and reputation of the brand.
This role requires a proven leader with deep knowledge of academic publishing, strong commercial instincts, and a focus on results. You’ll unite teams around shared goals, make decisive, data-driven choices, and build lasting partnerships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee 60+ specialist journals, driving financial performance. Use data to prioritise high-value titles and activities.
• Set KPIs with Editorial, Operations, and Growth teams to maintain quality and profitability.
• Streamline contracts and renewals to maximise margins.
• Develop journals programmatically to increase visibility in key therapy areas.
• Work with editorial boards to shape impactful content strategies.
• Partner with Marketing and Growth to attract top submissions.
• Improve turnaround times and simplify workflows.
• Standardise article formats and processes to reduce complexity.
• Build strong relationships with societies, institutions, and partners to secure renewals.
• Collaborate with the Director of Partnerships to grow wider publishing and events opportunities.
• Represent the company at industry events and track market trends.
• Maintain close ties with Editors and boards to align with business goals.
• Set and deliver financial targets across the portfolio.
• Analyse underperforming titles and apply best practices from top journals.
• Control costs and grow revenue without compromising quality.
• Lead and develop a team of Publishers with a strong commercial focus.
• Define metrics for editorial board growth, author retention, and succession planning.
• Align team structure with strategic and financial goals.
• Ensure close collaboration across Growth, Marketing, Product, Commercial, and Operations teams.

Skills & Experience: 

• Proven ability to manage large, complex journal portfolios with strong problem-solving, prioritisation, and delivery skills.
• Demonstrated success in driving submissions, increasing visibility, and improving the financial performance of journals.
• Experienced in launching and revitalising titles, using structured growth plans aligned with business goals.
• Brings a deep understanding of the STM publishing sector, its trends, challenges, and opportunities.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, margin optimisation, and data-driven decision-making.
• A confident people leader with experience in team building, talent development, and guiding cross-functional teams.
• Skilled negotiator with a collaborative approach to building long-term strategic partnerships.
• Possesses a global perspective and a strong awareness of international publishing trends.