At Cambridge University Press we are committed to advancing learning, knowledge and research world-wide. We are a part of the University of Cambridge and exist to further its mission: to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning and research at the highest international levels of excellence.
We are committed to creating a workplace that reflects the diversity we see in the customers and communities we serve and support flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Commissioning Editor to help shape the future of our academic publishing programme in Australia.
About the role
In this influential role, you will grow a high-quality academic list in Law and adjacent subjects in the social sciences. You will work with leading academics to publish authoritative textbooks, reference works and research that contributes to Australian higher education and global scholarship.
Reporting to the Publishing & Marketing Director, you will:
* Actively identify new publishing opportunities through research and networking
* Build and nurture strong, trust-based relationships with authors, editors and professional networks
* Commission new textbooks and learning resources aligned with undergraduate courses (primarily) as well as high-impact scholarly, reference and trade books
* Generate a commercially viable pipeline of books across print and digital formats
* Oversee market research and transform insights into strong publishing proposals
* Communicate clear product vision and value across internal and external stakeholders
* Collaborate closely with editorial, production, marketing and sales
* Provide support and guidance to development editors
This role offers autonomy, and the opportunity to influence content strategy in a rapidly evolving market.
About you
You bring publishing expertise, commercial acumen and a genuine enthusiasm for academic content and legal education. You will ideally have:
Essential
* Significant experience in academic or educational publishing (commissioning experience preferred)
* Strong understanding of the Australian higher education and/or legal education environment and a keen eye for market needs in teaching and learning
* Strong negotiation, communication and relationship building skills
* Excellent judgment in assessing academic content and its market potential
* Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively across functions
* Experience developing budgets, forecasts and successful publishing proposals
* Knowledge of author contracts, digital publishing tools and platforms
* Excellent project management, organisational and problem-solving skills
* Flexibility and initiative in a fast-evolving industry
Desirable
* Established networks within law and business schools, or the broader legal community
* Experience commissioning high‑quality nonfiction across multiple disciplines
* Understanding of open access and emerging models of scholarly communication
Whether you are an experienced commissioning editor ready to develop a fresh list or strong mid-level publisher seeking your next step in an expanding portfolio, we’d love to hear from you.
Rewards and Benefits
You’ll join a mission-driven organisation committed to improving learning and supporting academic communities worldwide. This role offers autonomy, meaningful impact and the chance to help shape a list that reaches educators and students across ANZ and beyond.
We want you to thrive. Our benefits include:
* Discretionary annual bonus
* Paid volunteer time
* Professional and career development opportunities
* Hybrid working and flexible arrangements from day one
* Modern Port Melbourne office near public transport with free parking
* A values‑driven, inclusive culture that embraces diversity
Ready to pursue your potential?
Please submit your CV and cover letter as a single document via the Apply button. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until Friday 27 February. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.