My Job in 5: Marie Bedrune

Describe your role
I am responsible for foreign rights across European territories including France, Germany, the Netherlands, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. I represent Nobrow, our graphic and comic books list, and Flying Eye Books—our children’s imprint. All year long, I am in contact with international publishers and travel quite a bit.

What do you like best about your role?
It is a joy to work on such exciting books with very creative people who are passionate about what they do. Nobrow/Flying Eye is renowned for its attention to detail in design and its storytelling, so being an ambassador for our lists abroad is an exciting responsibility. I also feel lucky to be collaborating with international publishers and happy to get our books in the hands of kids from the four corners of the world. I just got back from a trip to Scandinavia and seeing our books translated and displayed in bookshops there was very satisfying.

Which new projects or titles are you working on at the moment?
This year is going to be an exciting one. We are celebrating our 10-year anniversary, and we have a strong programme ahead with 45 titles planned across both lists. I am currently presenting Francesca Sanna’s new picture book, Me and My Fear. Her first book sold in 20 languages and we are hoping for the same for this one. We also have our Hilda series coming out on Netflix this year, which will be accompanied by a variety of new titles.

What skills do you need for your role?
Selling rights for graphic novels and illustrated children’s books is quite specific and I would say that you need to be passionate and curious about the market. Languages are of course an advantage and the job requires good negotiation and communication skills. Also, as you are liaising with all kinds of departments, you’ve got to like to work as a team player.

What advice would you give to those looking to work in the industry?
There are so many roles in publishing which require different abilities and know-how. Do a bit of research, try to identify your skills and personal tastes from an early stage and look for experience in areas that appeal to you. This will shape the path you are taking and help you to avoid meandering in all kinds of roles that are not suited to you.