Ballantine Bantam Dell mass market publisher Scott Shannon is changing roles in a clear sign of where the market is headed. He is taking on the new position of svp, publisher, Digital Content for the Random House Publishing Group, though on the print side he will remain as publisher of Del Rey/Spectra. Shannon will report directly to Gina Centrello in his new role, and director of digital marketing strategy and product development Matt Schwartz will now report to Shannon.
Publisher of Ballantine Bantam Dell Libby McGuire will take over leadership of the mass-market list, and associate publisher for mass market, Del Rey/Spectra and digital Gina Wachtel will report to McGuire.
Shannon and his team will “focus on content for our e-book originals, enhanced e-books, and apps created either from our books’ content or independently.” He will also “be developing content strategies for our existing and forthcoming category initiatives, including Suvudu.”
Harper Children’s UK managing director Mario Santos is leaving the company “to pursue other career opportunities.” Current division publisher Ann-Janine Murtagh has been promoted to replace him. In addition, Alison Ruane has been promoted to associate publisher and Geraldine Stround moves up to PR director.
Executive director of the Boston Book Festival Emily D’Amour Pardo is leaving to join her family’s business. In addition, Norah Piehl has been named director of communications and development for the Festival. Previously she was with the University of Illinois Press and MIT Press.