VACANCY: Editor-in-Chief for the African Journal of Disability

The African Journal of Disability (AJOD), a reputable peer-reviewed scholarly journal published by AOSIS, is looking for a dynamic and experienced academic to take on the role of Editor-in-Chief to oversee the editorial process of this open-access scholarly journal.

AJOD strives to remain a premier, high-quality scholarly journal with high visibility and impact that publishes international research in fields related to, amongst others,

• disability studies as an emerging field of public health enquiry
• rehabilitation, including vocational and community-based rehabilitation
• community development and medical issues related to disability and poverty
• disability-related stigma and discrimination
• inclusive education
• legal, policy, human rights and advocacy issues related to disability
• the role of arts and media in relation to disability
• disability as part of global Sustainable Development Goals transformation agendas
• disability and postcolonial issues
• globalisation and cultural change in relation to disability
• environmental and climate-related issues linked to disability
• disability, diversity and intersections of identity
• disability and the promotion of human development.

The Editor-in-Chief of AJOD will be responsible for ensuring the quality and reputation of the journal, promoting it to potential authors and readers, and leading the editorial team to achieve the journal’s goals. The Editor-in-Chief of AJOD typically serves a three-year term, which may be renewed, and up to five hours of work a week would be expected. The position comes with an honorarium. As AJOD covers multiple disciplines, the Editor-in-Chief will have to rely on a team of suitably qualified associate or section Editors, the appointment of whom will be recommended by the Editor-in-Chief once appointed.

• Provide overall strategic direction and vision for the journal.
• Oversee the editorial process, including manuscript submission and peer-review.
• Ensure that all editorial decisions are made based on the journal’s scope, policies, and ethical guidelines.
• Manage the editorial team, including associate and section editors, editorial assistants, and reviewers.
• Ensure that the journal’s publication schedule is met, and that production is efficient.
• Promote the journal through social media, academic conferences, and other means.
• Work closely with the publisher and the journal oversight committee to ensure the journal’s long-term sustainability.
• Represent the journal in discussions with authors, readers, and other stakeholders.
• Keep abreast of the latest developments and trends in the field and incorporate them into the journal’s strategy and policies.
• Monitor the journal’s performance and recommend changes to improve quality, efficiency, and impact.

Expectations:

• Publish high-quality research in a timely and efficient manner.
• Maintain the journal’s reputation and position as a leading journal in the field.
• Foster a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and transparency in the editorial team.
• Promote diversity and inclusivity in the journal’s editorial process, authorship, and readership.
• Meet publication deadlines and manage the editorial process efficiently.
• Work collaboratively with the publisher, editorial team, authors, reviewers, and other stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• PhD in a discipline related to the journal’s focus and scope with a strong record of scholarly publications in quality journals and books.
• At least 5 years’ experience as an editor or associate/assistant editor for a scholarly journal, or a proven record of academic leadership.
• Experience as a member of an editorial board, a section editor, or reviewer for a scholarly journal shall be is advantageous.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, including the ability to motivate and manage a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong decision-making skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Knowledge of the latest technological developments in scholarly publishing.
• Familiarity with publication ethics and guidelines.
• Understanding of the research landscape in the journal’s field.
• A strong commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and ethical practices.

If you meet these qualifications and are passionate about leading a dynamic and successful editorial team, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity with a cover letter, attaching your full Curriculum Vitae.

All submissions can be submitted online at https://forms.office.com/r/j5m09mGbMq?origin=lprLink and the following information will be required with each:

• A letter of motivation for your application, with personal contact details
• A link to an abridged Curriculum Vitae (CV) (include only the relevant information)
• Contact details of two professional/academic references
• Current institutional affiliation
• ORCID with a fully populated online ORCID profile
• Scopus ID (optional but advantageous)
• Google Scholar ID (optional but advantageous).

AOSIS will contact all potential candidates once a decision has been made. Potential candidates may be asked to attend a virtual interview. For any further information or queries, please email us at indexing@aosis.co.za.

Closing date for applications: 12:00 SAST on Monday, 11 November 2024.