Editorial Assistant-Sage Open

Job Purpose

Based in the Sage India office, the Editorial Assistant is responsible for supporting the successful management of manuscript submissions for Sage Open by performing extended scope checks, facilitating reviewer selection and invitations, and ensuring the efficient progression of manuscripts through the peer review process using Sage Track, Sage's online manuscript management system.

The role requires delivering high-quality operational support, maintaining professional communication with editors, authors, reviewers, and internal stakeholders, and contributing to the achievement of service levels, quality standards, and workflow efficiency. The Editorial Assistant will manage assigned manuscripts across scope checking and reviewer selection activities in accordance with the Work Allocation Plan (WAP).

Key Responsibilities

Manuscript Processing & Peer Review Support

• Perform detailed scope and submission compliance checks on manuscripts submitted through Sage Track, ensuring readiness for peer review.

• Review manuscript files and metadata for completeness, accuracy, and adherence to journal requirements.

• Identify, source, invite, and assign suitable reviewers and Article Editors for manuscript submissions.

• Support Article Editors throughout the peer review process, including reviewer invitations, assignment management, and review completion activities.

• Monitor manuscript progress and ensure timely movement through workflow stages.

Stakeholder Communication & Service Delivery

• Respond promptly and professionally to emails, Halo tickets, and stakeholder queries.

• Maintain high-quality communication with editors, authors, reviewers, and internal Sage colleagues.

• Ensure responses to stakeholder correspondence are provided within agreed service levels (typically within 48 hours, excluding weekends and public holidays).

• Follow up proactively with authors, reviewers, and editors regarding pending actions, overdue reviews, and workflow requirements.

• Build and maintain positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Workflow Management & Operational Excellence

• Manage assigned manuscript workloads effectively while consistently meeting productivity, turnaround time, and quality targets.

• Demonstrate strong attention to detail and accuracy across all editorial support activities.

• Identify workflow issues, system challenges, or process gaps and escalate appropriately.

• Support troubleshooting activities to ensure the effective functioning of the Sage Open peer review platform.

• Adhere to established editorial policies, operational procedures, and quality standards.

Collaboration & Knowledge Development

• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders across Sage India, the UK, the US, and other global locations through email, reporting, and virtual meetings.

• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Develop and maintain a strong understanding of peer review processes, editorial policies, and publishing best practices.

• Share knowledge and provide support, guidance, or training to team members when required.

• Demonstrate a proactive learning mindset and contribute to overall team success.

Skills, Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor's degree in any discipline.

Experience

• Experience in publishing, editorial support, customer service, operations, or a related field is preferred.

• Fresh graduates with strong communication and analytical skills may also be considered.

Technical & Functional Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with global stakeholders.

• Good computer proficiency and ability to learn multiple systems and workflow tools.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.

• Ability to prioritize workload and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to service excellence.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At Sage we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that is representative of all sections of society and to sustaining a culture that celebrates difference, encourages authenticity, and creates a deep sense of belonging. We welcome applications from all members of society irrespective of age, disability, sex or gender identity, sexual orientation, color, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief as creating value through diversity is what makes us strong.  As a business and as an organization with an increasingly agile workforce, we're open to flexible working arrangements where appropriate.