Selbach to succeed Beech as m.d. of Pluto Press

Veruschka Selbach is to succeed Anne Beech as managing director of London-based radical publisher Pluto Press following Beech's depature from the company later this year.

Beech is retiring after 30 years with the press, and over 40 years in publishing.

She said: "I am absolutely delighted at Veruschka’s appointment. I have known Veruschka as a publishing associate and a friend for some years now, and it’s very clear to me that she has the energy and the vision to sustain Pluto’s editorial independence and to oversee the expansion of Pluto’s publishing programme in what are exciting times for independent radical publishers.

"I’m very proud of Pluto - for surviving in the face of considerable odds, and for remaining true to a robustly progressive publishing tradition. It’s a privilege to welcome Veruschka aboard – and a pleasure to do so knowing that the press will flourish in her capable hands."

Selbach began her publishing career at Oxford University Press in Southern Africa, moving on to Berg Publishers, Earthscan and Pickering & Chatto. In 2011 she co-founded a business and environmental publisher, Do Sustainability, which was sold in 2015. Since then, she has been consulting on sales, marketing and digital strategies for various independent publishers.

Selbach said: "I am honoured to be given the opportunity to work with the bright, creative team that is Pluto Press. In the current political environment, the work that Pluto does is more important than ever. We have very exciting plans that will take advantage of new technologies and communication strategies to enhance our unique position in the market. We will continue to develop a fiercely independent list with integrity."