Job Description

Oxford University Press

Oxford University Press advances knowledge and learning of all kinds, from a child reading their first words to a researcher expanding the frontiers of their field. Our work is constantly evolving, and the possibilities are endless. We strive to help more and more people around the world achieve their potential. Oxford University Press is a department of the University of Oxford. It is our mission to further the University's objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide.

Publisher: Coding and Robotics

Fixed Term Contract (12 Months)

The Publisher: Coding and Robotics will be responsible for leading research, proposal drafting and the development of strong, market-facing, curriculum-aligned Coding and Robotics print and digital products, aimed at all focus markets as determined by the OUP strategy. They will ensure that proposed products are well-positioned to meet the strategic objectives of OUP as well as to achieve market approval, sales, and profitability targets. In addition, the successful candidate will also be required to publish in other subject areas from time to time as required by market opportunities



The successful candidate will be reporting to the Publishing Manager: Schools Content & Vocational. This post is based in Goodwood.

Principal Accountabilities:

Developing market-focused product

Contribute to the strategic execution of the Schools business, conduct robust planning and resource market research, competitive analyses, accurate budgeting, and to commission and publish products that increase market share and profitability, timeously. Supporting authors through effective workshops, ensuring smooth implementation of content and ancillaries, as well as submission and approvals management.

Maintaining productive relationships with internal & external stakeholders

Actively collaborate with Sales and Marketing teams, deepening opportunities within the market and providing first-line support on product knowledge, institution engagement and event attendance. Liaise with Digital Product team, contributing continuously to the digital product strategy, generating business cases and budgeting, project management and meeting deadlines where required. Liaising with Publishing Services regarding project briefs and information so that publication goals are met, manuscript handover, as well as monitoring and production input throughout the product lifecycle. Ensuring that author engagement is sustainable by attracting professionals with market-facing experience, profile fit and supported through training and timeous complaint resolution. Build and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with professional organisations, NGOs and educationalists. Build and maintain strong relationships with relevant education ministries and government departments. Contribute to OUP's Thought Leadership strategy in collaboration with the Marketing team.

Finance and budget management

Forecast annual operational expenses in line with guidelines in terms of overheads, author and first costs. Budgets are compiled and approved within margins. Manage costs against approved budget and producing insightful variance analyses. Develop and manage cost control mechanisms

Efficient business systems user

Business systems used efficiently, procedures are up to date and new users are trained.

Ethical, regulatory and legal risk management

Adhering to OUP ethical policies and codes of conduct, maintaining strict confidentiality and scrutiny of business transactions and active prevention tactics applied

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor's degree or equivalent (NQF 7) in related field. Teaching or lecturing experience in Coding and Robotics and CAT is advantageous. Driver's license (Code B) Minimum of 2 years' working experience where a track record of conceptualising and delivering high- quality, successful Coding and Robotics print and digital products for schools, preferably in multiple Southern African markets is demonstrated. Experience in digital publishing advantageous. Minimum of 3 years' working experience of setting up and managing projects across complexity, and overhead budgeting at a leading level, in a product development context Proven experience in market research and analysis, and writing business cases in aid of product development

Attributes:

Excellent time and project management expertise - with the ability to estimate realistic time and resource requirements to budget Solid understanding of publishing systems and processes along with high familiarity with production & design terminology and processes Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to think and act quickly, negotiate challenges and troubleshoot solutions often under pressure Excellent communication skills - with proven ability to listen and collaborate with other teams to plan and coordinate activities Understanding of pedagogy including digital learning, new pedagogies and approaches to learning Ability to build rapport and trusting relationships with various internal and external stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and cultures across all levels Action and delivery oriented Shows resilience and commitment Positive attitude

Oxford offers the following:

Remuneration will be commensurate with experience Statutory leave Engaging work in a rewarding, supportive, collaborative and ethical environment

Oxford University Press, an equal opportunity employer, seeks a talented individual to fill this post. Oxford University Press will consider all applications in terms of its Employment Equity Plan, which acknowledges the need for transformation.





Closing date: 16 May 2025