Francesca Russell named Hodder & Stoughton communications director

Hodder & Stoughton has appointed Francesca Russell as its new communications director, succeeding Eleni Lawrence, who left the company in March 2024.

Russell will join on 29th July from Bonnier Books UK, where she is trade public relations director. In this role she has overseen strategy and delivery for all PR across the company, working closely with corporate communications, managing directors and the senior team to help deliver imprint, divisional and company messaging through trade and consumer PR.

Oli Malcolm, m.d. of Hodder & Stoughton, said: “During this period of accelerated growth and change, we are demonstrating long-term commitment to our authors by recruiting some of the brightest talents in the industry. Francesca Russell has over 15 years’ experience in top-tier commercial publishing, working with global brands, debut writers, estates and on film and TV tie-ins.

“Her commitment to author and agent care, and her knowledge of the activities which make both a commercial and reputational difference, is quite simply unparalleled. We know she is the  right person to lead our brilliant team of publicists and deliver Hodder & Stoughton’s communications strategy.”

Russell said: “I was thrilled to accept the chance to work with Oli and the senior leadership team at what is a hugely exciting time of growth and opportunity for Hodder & Stoughton. The authors on the lists are simply remarkable and the Hodder team’s energy and  creativity is impressive.

“I can’t wait to become part of this exciting momentum and ultimately ensure the books reach as many readers as possible. I am very grateful to Perminder [Mann, c.e.o. of Bonnier Books],  and the Bonnier Books UK team for believing in me and for what has been a really dynamic, happy six years. I will miss my authors and my team very much.”