Publisher

Job Title: Publisher

Fixed Term Contract, Full-time (maternity leave cover)

Locations: Milan – Hybrid Working Model

Application Deadline: 22nd November 2026

About Springer Nature

Springer Nature is one of the leading publishers of research in the world. We publish the largest number of journals and books and are pioneers in open research. Through our leading brands, trusted for more than 180 years, we provide technology-enabled products, platforms and services that help researchers to uncover new ideas and share their discoveries, health professionals to stay at the forefront of medical science, and educators to advance learning. We are proud to be part of progress, working together with the communities we serve to share knowledge and bring greater understanding to the world.

For more information, please visit about.springernature.com and @SpringerNature.

At Springer Nature, we recognise that talent is developed through a range of career paths. We encourage applications from individuals with strong transferable skills, provided they are supported by relevant experience that shows how those skills have been successfully applied in practice. Our hiring approach balances skills, experience, and potential to ensure each role is fulfilled with both short-term effectiveness and long-term growth in mind.

About the Role

We are seeking a Publisher to join our Humanities and Social Sciences Journals Group. This is a temporary/locum position which may last up to one year.

As the Publisher, you would oversee the management and strategic growth for a portfolio of approximately 14 journals in psychology and behavioural health sciences, including many fully Open Access titles.

To develop the portfolio, you’ll enjoy being proactive, creative and data-driven to devise and implement journal development plans. As the primary publishing contact for your journals, you’ll work alongside leading academics in their capacity as Editor, Editorial Board Member, Author or Reviewer for the journal. In addition, you are expected to maintain, foster, and establish new relationships with academic societies, and with colleagues from across the business. This means excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships are key to ensure the smooth running and success of the journal portfolio. Curiosity, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively will be vital.

This is a hybrid working position offered in our Milan office.

The location(s) strategy supports team structure and aligns business needs.

Role Responsibilities

• Maintain and develop excellent relationships with external partners, including Editors-in-Chief, Editorial Board Members, and Society representatives for journals within the program, demonstrating strong stakeholder management, communication, and consulting skills.
• Monitor the status of all projects within the program through internal reporting systems, applying business insights and sound judgment to identify opportunities, address challenges, and liaise effectively with key stakeholders as needed.
• Prioritize journals for development and inclusion in company initiatives by leveraging market intelligence, financial awareness, and a strategic mindset to align decisions with company objectives.
• Support the management of journals by handling contract renewals and recruiting new Editors-in-Chief as required, utilizing strong editorial expertise, consulting skills, and effective stakeholder engagement.
• Resolve queries and maintain proactive communication with Editors and other stakeholders through email, phone, virtual meetings, and occasional travel, demonstrating professionalism, responsiveness, and the ability to balance diverse stakeholder needs.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with production, peer review management, research integrity, marketing, and other internal teams on individual projects and broader topics of mutual interest, fostering strong cross-functional partnerships.
• Maintain knowledge of COPE guidelines and apply strong editorial skills to advise on publication ethics queries, with appropriate supervision and in accordance with company policies and industry best practices.
• Work closely with various Springer Nature offices and business units to coordinate program activities, share market insights, and ensure alignment with organizational priorities and strategic goals.
• Represent Springer Nature at local and international conferences as required, building relationships with key stakeholders, identifying emerging market trends, strengthening industry networks, and creating new opportunities for portfolio growth.
• Apply an understanding of pedagogy, market developments, business performance, and strategic priorities to support the ongoing development and success of the journal portfolio.
• Perform related duties as required, demonstrating adaptability, sound judgment, effective consultation, and a strategic approach to problem-solving.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications:

Essential

• A degree (a degree in a relevant subject area is desirable)
• Demonstrated experience working in a similar publishing role (journals or books) in an academic related field or academic research experience
• Experience of developing and maintaining productive and friendly relations/partnerships with external contacts.
• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues at all levels, as well as work independently
• Excellent communication, influencing and coaching skills
• Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail in administration
• Highly client-/customer focused
• Takes ownership to drive and complete tasks
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• A positive and proactive approach to change and innovation
• Proven ability to meet deadlines consistently
• A resourceful and proactive approach in dealing with problems and queries, and the ability to adapt quickly to change
• Ability to travel occasionally
• Advanced written and spoken English language skills

Desirable

• Demonstrated interest, education, or experience in related fields of behavioral and social sciences
• Familiarity with developments in Open Access, Academic Publishing and Publication Ethics
• Experience managing a journal portfolio, with demonstrated growth and results

To apply, please submit a CV and a cover letter outlining your key ambitions in the role, including notice period.

For Milan, Italy position only:

• Publisher: Minimum salary €41,500

National Collective Labour Agreement for employees of printing, publishing, digital and related companies (Publishers’ Section) – CNEL Code G011

Springer Nature promotes an inclusive work environment and welcomes applications from individuals belonging to protected categories under Italian Law 68/99

At Springer Nature, our mission is to be part of progress – and that begins with inclusion: of people, perspectives, and ideas. We believe that diverse perspectives drive progress, and we are committed to creating an environment where people and ideas can flourish. If you have any access needs related to disability, neurodivergence or a chronic condition, please contact us so we can make all necessary accommodation. Find out more about our DEI work here https://group.springernature.com/gp/group/taking-responsibility/diversity-equity-inclusion   

For more information about career opportunities in Springer Nature please visit https://springernature.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/SpringerNatureCareers/

Job Posting End Date:

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About Us

We are a global and progressive business, founded on a heritage of trusted and respected brands – including Springer, founded in 1842, Macmillan, founded in 1843 and Nature, first published in 1869.

Nearly two centuries of progress and advancement in science and education have helped shape the business we are today. Research and learning continues to be the cornerstone of progress, and we will continue to open doors to discovery through trusted brands and innovative products and services. Springer Nature Group was created in May 2015 through the combination of Nature Publishing Group, Macmillan Education and Springer Science+Business Media.