Frances Elks promoted to publisher at Ladybird after joining in March

Frances Elks has been promoted to publisher at Ladybird just four months after joining as editorial director, having “demonstrated her passion, drive, focus and creativity for both the list and the brand.” 

In her new role, Elks will be tasked with “growing the brand in the preschool space”. 

Elks has 15 years of experience having started at independent publisher Boxer Books before moving to Hachette Children’s Group where she worked across the novelty and picture book lists, working with authors and illustrators including Rachel Bright, Jim Field, Kes Gray, Mike Brownlow, Benjamin Zephaniah and Chris Chatterton. 

Elks said: “It’s an immense privilege to be stepping up into this role. Ladybird is a list with an incredible heritage that has gone from strength to strength in recent years, and I’m hugely excited about the opportunities to come. It’s a joy to be a part of such a creative, dynamic team, and I’m delighted to be working alongside James Stevens to continue to build and grow this brilliant list.” 

Geraldine McBride, Ladybird publishing director, said: “Frances has already played a significant role in setting our vision and ambitions for Ladybird—and I am delighted that we will benefit even further from her expertise in this role as we continue to expand our talent-led publishing in novelty, non-fiction and picture books.  

“Her passion for the preschool market and the very best storytelling for our youngest readers is evident, and I am excited about the future of Ladybird under the leadership of Frances as publisher and James as art director.”