People 8/2

Sophie Cottrell will leave the company at the end of August “to take a pause and spend some well-deserved downtime to think about what she might like to do next.” Gabrielle Gambrell will join as the new svp communications on August 19. She has been head of communications, inclusive experiences & technology, employee experience at Amazon since 2021.

CEO David Shelley writes, “Sophie’s role as HBG navigated the pandemic, six company acquisitions, and many other significant developments, cannot be overstated. It’s a high pressure job that is not for the faint of heart, and Sophie has brought energy, intelligence, and impact to the work. Sophie’s discretion, unflappability, professionalism, and the respect and trust she has earned with HBG leadership, in our industry and with the media, are all to HBG’s advantage, and key to our success.”

Cottrell comments: “I’ve loved my time at HBG and the cherished friendships and industry relationships I’ve built over the years, and I’m very proud of the work we’ve accomplished together. After 35 years in publishing, I’m excited to take this opportunity to step back, experience life beyond the demands of work, and explore new possibilities for my future.”

CEO Brad Dempsey and COO Jeremy Patlen have left the company.

Derek Holland is named managing director, responsible for all bookselling operations. He will also be the senior store manager based at the Colfax location. He has been a bookseller and manager at Tattered Cover for nearly 35 years.

Individual store managers have also been confirmed: Katie Bierzychudek at Colfax; Scott Patnesky at Aspen Grove, and John Michael Wolter at Stanley Market Place.

Julie Paulauski has been promoted to assistant director of publicity.

Robby Imfeld has been promoted to senior director, marketing.

Taylan Salvati has been promoted to senior publicity manager.

Anna Ravenelle and Abby Dommert were both promoted to publicist.

Lisa Calcasola has been promoted to senior associate, marketing on the teen team.

Catherine Ryoo has been promoted to rights associate, reporting to Adrienne Tang.

Farishteh Pavri has joined on contract as events coordinator.

Farnaz Lilian joined as junior financial analyst.