Blackwell Publishing

Who are we looking for?

In this section you will find information on the sorts of qualifications, experience, skills and qualities that we look for. Have a look and if you think you've got what it takes, then progress to the How to Apply section. We'd love to hear from you.

Who we don't employ

We don't publish literature or magazines, and we aren't looking for authors, graphic designers or proofreaders. We are an academic publisher, and the majority of our material is written and designed by third parties. If you are interested in any of these other areas, we recommend you visit a careers library and get more information about who best to contact.

Qualifications

You'll certainly have achieved good 'A' levels, Highers or equivalent and you will be of graduate caliber. You may even hold a post-graduate qualification.

Experience

Some work experience is essential. You'll have ideally gained at least six months' experience and you'll be comfortable carrying out general office duties, working in a team, using standard I.T. packages and dealing with customers. Most of our recruits had gained work experience within an office environment before joining us, either by working in another industry or during university vacations or gap years.

Knowledge

You'll be able to demonstrate knowledge of the publishing industry and ideally have had some exposure to the Science, Arts or Social Science subjects, although do not be put off if you do not have subject knowledge.

Competencies

We have identified a set of six core competencies which are fundamental to the successful performance of our employees in our entry posts. Throughout the selection process, we will be looking for evidence that you can demonstrate these.

Planning and Organising
We need people who can manage daily and ongoing work requirements in order to complete assigned tasks without close supervision. This includes being able to orchestrate multiple activities at once and manage conflicting priorities. The ability to allocate and manage appropriate amounts of time for completing longer term goals whilst being able to avoid scheduling conflicts is essential.

Detail Handling
Attention to detail is paramount to our success. This is demonstrated through an ability to follow standard operating procedures, maintain detailed records and maintain a high level of quality and standards in all areas of work.

Customer Care
Our success is built on our ability to identify and meet our customer's needs - both our internal and external customers. We are looking for people who can demonstrate an awareness of and attention to customer's needs together with the ability to handle sometimes difficult customer situations effectively and efficiently with the result that the customer has a positive view of the organisation.

Team working
We need to work together, not just with our colleagues but with other internal and external partners, to be successful. Successful teamwork stems from an ability to establish rapport, communicate effectively, support team decisions and collaborate with others to solve problems and achieve team goals.

Time management
We work in a fast moving environment where the ability to manage our own time is vital. We need individuals who can think about and plan for the upcoming day and week and who use tools to assist them in managing their time. These people will also be able to be flexible with their time to deal with unexpected situations!

Building Relationships
Publishing is about relationships. We pride ourselves on being able to build strong, ongoing relationships with everyone that we work with. This involves being able to make people feel valued and appreciated, keeping in regular contact with key customers, and identifying and rectifying problems in business relationships through the use of tact and diplomacy.