Audio publisher Bar-Kar to leave PRH

Audio publisher at Penguin Random House UK Videl Bar-Kar has decided to leave the company after three years.

Bar-Kar has decided that he would like to explore other opportunities in the digital content world.

The Bookseller understands a new structure for the audio team at PRH UK will be revealed in due course.

In March this year, audio became a standalone division at the publisher lead by Hannah Telfer, m.d of Penguin Random House Audio, with the aim of fostering a “unified audio strategy" across the whole company.

Bar-Kar said: “I have enjoyed an incredible three years at Penguin Random House. In this time, Audio has grown into a fully-formed publishing division, including the renowned BBC Audio business. The Audio division has pushed the boundaries of what audio storytelling can be, launched new innovations, and run award-winning publishing and marketing campaigns - from the Dan & Phil binaural 3D trailer to the re-launch of The Penguin Podcast with Richard E. Grant.”

He added: “Growing the Audio business has been hugely exciting, rewarding and made possible by a fantastic team and colleagues from across the business. Now feels like the perfect time for me to seek out a new challenge."

Telfer said: “The last three years have seen the unparalleled success and growth of our Audio business. I'd like to thank Videl for his hard work and leadership of our team of audio experts across editorial, marketing, production and operations. We wish him the best of luck for his future endeavours.”

PRH UK signed a deal to become the global publisher and distributor for all BBC-branded physical and digital audiobooks in March 2015.

Shortly afterwards in May, BBC Radio 4’s former commissioning editor Caroline Raphael joined PRH in the role of editorial director for audio, reporting to Bar-Kar.