Blackwell’s sales and marketing director to leave

Bookseller Blackwell's has confirmed sales and marketing director Dean Drew will be leaving the business in April after three years. 

Blackwell's said Drew, who is taking an extended break from full time work, has been "part of the team that has seen sales grow by over a third in just three years."

Drew said: "I have been juggling work with a number of personal family responsibilities and have therefore made this very difficult decision. Working at Blackwell’s has been an inspirational experience. It has been a joy working with such talented booksellers and I am proud to have played a small part in the growth and increased awareness of the wonderful Blackwell’s brand. I have also loved working in books and publishing and hope, in some way, to stay involved in the future."

Blackwell's c.e.o. David Prescott added: "We are disappointed that Drew is leaving but understand the reasons. We will miss his energy and passion’. Over the past three years he has helped us make great progress, not just in sales but also in our multi-channel approach, innovative shop models, the growth in trade & non-book, brand positioning, publisher relations, and university partnerships. We have a great foundation for the next period of growth."

The firm, which this week opened a new bookshop in Manchester, has started the recruitment process for a new sales and marketing director.