My Job in 5: Eleanor Goymer

Describe your role
I am Head of Rights at HarperCollins with responsibility for the HarperFiction, Avon and HQ divisions.  I sell rights across fiction titles to the US and major European markets and co-ordinate the translation publishing for UK fiction through the global HarperCollins offices.

What do you like best about your role?
The variety.  I like reading diverse genres, meeting new people and working on different projects.  I enjoy the opportunity to travel and visit new publishers in new locations; different regional perspectives on what works in one market and why fascinates me.

Which new projects or titles are you working on at the moment?
We’re working on the film tie in titles for the next Fantastic Beasts film.  It was an amazing experience to work on the last film so I’m looking forward to the next.  I’ve worked on the tie in programmes for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit and this has been just as exciting.  At the moment we’re putting the finishing touches to our Rights Guide for the London Book Fair; this is a really busy time of year for us as we’re reading and pitching new titles and meeting scouts and publishers from all around the world.

What skills do you need for your role?
A love of reading, a genuine interest in people and what makes them tick.  Negotiation skills and a clear head.

What advice would you give to those looking to work in the industry?
Be open to different opportunities in the publishing world.  Read as widely as you can, step out of your comfort zone every once in a while.  Finally, always be ready to tell someone what you’re reading and what you love about it (or not.)  It can kickstart some great conversations and life-long friendships!