Boulton appointed managing director of Unbound as Kieran steps down

Kate Boulton has been appointed m.d. of Unbound, while co-founder of the company Dan Kieran is stepping down as c.e.o. 

Boulton, who was formerly the finance and operations general manager of the crowdfunding publisher, joined the company in 2020, working alongside publisher and co-founder John Mitchinson.

Christoph Sander, chairman of Unbound, said Boulton had been "instrumental in managing the internal processes at Unbound during these extraordinary times. She has brought the necessary disciplines, focus and lots of enthusiasm to the organisation, and this is a well-deserved promotion. We are looking forward to Kate joining John Mitchinson on the board of Unbound."

Boulton said: “I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to work alongside John in leading Unbound into its second decade. The company and culture that Dan and John have created at Unbound is a privilege to be a part of and I wish Dan all the best in his next endeavours. Joining Unbound at the start of a global pandemic was a unique experience and I am proud to have contributed to our most successful year of financial results in 2021. Now more than ever, it is vital that we continue to showcase a wide range of authors and voices and I am excited for our future plans.”

At the same time, Kieran, who was one of the co-founders of the business alongside Mitchinson and Justin Pollard, is stepping back from his role. 

"The board would like to place on record our sincere thanks for Dan’s leadership during this time," Sander said. "Dan will continue to be involved with Unbound going forward both in sourcing new, exciting ideas and projects, and in rekindling his passion for writing great books."

Kieran added: “I have achieved what I set out to do with Unbound and after living, breathing and leading the business for over a decade, I’m looking forward to seeing how it develops with someone new at the helm. No one will be cheering John, Kate and the rest of the team on louder than me.”

Mitchinson said this was "a big moment" for the firm. He said:  "Dan and I have worked hand in glove together, for over a decade. It’s hard to imagine not doing that but I’m proud Unbound is now in such a strong position that he can make this exciting decision. And much of that is due to the impact of Kate, who has led the transformation of the business. Over the past two years she and I have built a very close working relationship and I’m so pleased she is up for the next stage of the journey. This is the best possible news for the Unbound team and all our authors.”