Ainley takes on role at National Centre for Writing

The National Centre for Writing (NCW) has appointed Holly Ainley as its new head of programmes and creative engagement.

Ainley joins the team this month. She has previously worked at Jarrold in Norwich, where she was book buyer, manager and led on the literary events programme for the store. Prior to this she worked in the publishing industry, as commissioning editor for The Borough Press at HarperCollins and at independent publishers Myriad Editions and Nine Arches Press.

She also trained at a literary scouting agency for several years and has contributed to the Open University’s Creative Writing MA syllabus. She currently runs BBC Radio Norfolk’s monthly book club on the mid-morning show. 

Ainley said: “I have long admired the diverse and inspirational work produced and supported by the National Centre for Writing and am excited to be joining at a time of growth and development for the organisation. The power of writing to help individuals and communities navigate the times we live in has never felt more vital and I look forward to working with such a committed and creative team in seeking to engage with and respond to this.” 

Chris Gribble, c.e.o. of the National Centre for Writing, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Holly to the NCW team. Her experience across publishing, bookselling, agenting and events will be a huge asset to us as we plot the next chapter of our work and enter Norwich’s second decade as a Unesco City of Literature. She will bring a lot to our audiences and communities, and we can’t wait to get started.”