Head of Editorial

Inspired is proud to be the exclusive recruitment partner of Cochrane, a globally respected not-for-profit leader in evidence-based healthcare publishing. Cochrane is seeking an Interim Head of Editorial to lead its editorial operations during a critical and transformative period, in an initial contract of 24 months. This role is central to the strategic and operational delivery of high-quality systematic reviews, ensuring clarity, quality, and efficiency across the editorial workflow. This is a fully remote position and can be based in the UK, Germany, or Denmark. Details: Salary: £64,000-£66,000 Contract: 24 months Location: Home-based within the UK, Germany or Denmark About the Role Reporting to the Deputy for Editorial Operations and working closely with the Editor in Chief, you will serve as the executive lead for daily editorial operations within Cochrane’s Central Editorial Service (CES). This includes managing people, processes, and systems to deliver timely, high-quality editorial outcomes. You'll play a pivotal role in driving operational improvements, implementing Cochrane editorial policy, and advising on strategic decisions related to the development and delivery of Cochrane’s publication outputs. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Cochrane’s mission and ensure its editorial infrastructure supports its vision for the future. Key Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a high-performing editorial team (4-6 direct reports, and around 20 indirect reports), ensuring equitable task allocation and professional development Own and optimise editorial workflows and processes, ensuring they are robust, efficient, and aligned with Cochrane’s policies Champion innovation and continuous improvement across editorial operations Oversee quality control of Cochrane’s published content, including high-profile or complex reviews Manage configuration and reporting needs within Editorial Manager, Cochrane’s editorial workflow system Collaborate across Cochrane to contribute operational expertise to strategic planning, including new journal products and expanded content types Advocate for the Central Editorial Service across internal and external stakeholders, fostering communication and transparency Represent the editorial function in strategic forums, including as part of the Editor in Chief’s core team What We’re Looking For Significant experience in editorial leadership, ideally within STM journals publishing or evidence synthesis Demonstrated ability to lead teams, implement change, and manage editorial workflows at scale Strong project management and communication skills; comfortable working across cultures and disciplines Familiarity with editorial systems (ideally Editorial Manager) and digital publishing tools A proactive, strategic mindset and the ability to contribute to high-level planning Experience in the healthcare, academic, or charity sectors is highly desirable Knowledge of Cochrane’s editorial standards and methods (e.g., MECIR, GRADE) is a plus, but not essential This role is ideal for an editorial leader with a passion for improving processes and supporting global health impact. If you're ready to play a key part in shaping the future of evidence-based healthcare publishing, we’d love to hear from you.

Location: UK, GB

Posted Date: 7/31/2025