At MEAC (Middle East, Africa & Caribbean) we are always learning because wherever learning flourishes, so do our people. MEAC works across multiple continents, using education to bring hope and opportunity.
We believe in learning – all kinds of learning for all of our people, changing lives and transforming societies.
Join the MEAC region to work across multiple continents and become one of Pearson’s most exciting, dynamic and fastest growing teams.
Position Description
Background Information:
Pearson is investing in a new operation in Ethiopia that will develop content for schools and higher education markets as well as targeting Government and Institutional customers in the areas of assessment, qualifications and English Language teaching.
It is intended for a new business unit, with joint investment with our Ethiopian partner to be operational by January 2012
Purpose:
To research and assist in developing new publishing projects and initiatives for Ethiopia.
Key Accountabilities:
Research and planning:
- Plan and conduct market research to develop new publishing proposals
- Perform detailed competitor analysis towards new publishing proposals
- Develop and maintain key contacts in the markets in order to build and share a thorough understanding of education systems, key decision makers, and market needs
- Contribute to planning of new publishing projects
Author and adviser management:
- Identify potential authors, reviewers and advisers
- Brief authors, reviewers and advisers as appropriate
- Schedule and coordinate work of authors, reviewers and advisers
- Monitor development of manuscripts and other work, ensuring authors/advisers/reviewers submit on time and according to brief and market needs
- Manage, review, and report on projects
Project management:
- Contribute to project design briefs to ensure market needs are met
- Report on quality and appropriateness of themes, artwork and design
- Manage and implement piloting and reporting for specific projects
Communications:
- Networking and contact building across the educational sector
- Liaison with Ministry of Education and Regional Educational Bureaux on specific projects
- Liaison with local companies and UK office
- Help create a good professional image for Pearson in the field
Key Challenges:
- Accuracy and relevance of research and planning - the open market for educational materials in Ethiopia is new to Pearson and rapidly growing; success of publishing projects will rely heavily on effective assessment of the market and needs for.
- Extensive regional travel – required to ensure research is accurate and representative, and to maintain relevant contacts.
- Organisation and prioritisation of work – the post holder is likely to need to work to tight deadlines on a frequent basis.
- People and process management – there may be tight deadlines and/or complex projects with a variety of contributors.
Competencies:
Essential:
- Project management experience; proven experience of managing multiple projects simultaneously and independently
- Ability to use a variety of research methods
- Ability to network and target and form relevant relationships with key contacts in the educational sector
- Familiarity with the education system of Ethiopia
- Excellent spoken and written English, including grammar
- Ability to operate in both English and Amharic
- IT skills
- Teamwork skills
Desirable:
- Familiarity with print/publishing processes
- Editorial skills
- Working knowledge of the textbook/educational materials market in Ethiopia
Education, Qualifications & Training
Essential:
- Further education qualification – diploma or degree level
Desirable:
- Qualification in a relevant subject – education, publishing, marketing.
Previous Experience
Essential:
- Planning and managing complex projects
- Working independently using own initiative, but also working effectively as part of a team
- Working with a variety of external contacts
Desirable:
- Educational experience – e.g. teaching
- Editorial experience
- Print/publishing or marketing experience in a professional capacity
IT Literacy
Essential:
- Competent in the use of Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel and Outlook
- Good overall computer skills including Internet familiarity
Personal Style and Behaviour
- Highly developed use of English language; good command of grammar and spelling. Keen eye for detail and visual sense.
- Pro-active and flexible working style, constantly looking for improvements.
- Hard working and highly motivated with excellent interpersonal skills, well organised and able to spot opportunities or areas for improvement.
- A completer/finisher who will see all things to a successful conclusion.
- This is a new market and role and the post-holder will require considerable energy, resilience and a ‘can-do’ attitude.
Contact Information:
For submissions: apply here
Website: http://www.pearson.com/
