Gregory steps down as Igloo Books c.e.o.

Igloo Books c.e.o. Paul Gregory has stepped down after more than six years and will transition into an advisory board member role within the business.

Perminder Mann, c.e.o. of Bonnier Books UK, will continue to oversee Igloo Books, working directly with the existing leadership team and no direct replacement has been confirmed.

Gregory will take on a part-time advisory role within the business, effective immediately.

Mann said Gregory "has been an inspiring leader, expanding our international reach, innovating new formats and products, and above all, building a strong leadership team". She added: "Paul has been a fantastic colleague, and I am delighted that we will be able to draw on his expertise as he transitions onto the advisory board.

“Igloo is a pivotal part of our business and speaks to our commitment to publish into all areas of the market, and for all readers. We’re so grateful to Paul for his time, energy and expertise.”

Formerly c.o.o. of Parragon Books, Gregory started as c.e.o. of Igloo Books in September 2017, “with the ambition to make the business the global leader in mass-market publishing and oversee the newly established Disney relationship”, Bonnier Books UK said.

“Based in Northamptonshire, Gregory built a team of over 150 staff and managed the company’s imprints – Igloo Books, Autumn Publishing, Sparkpool and the highly successful licensing team where Igloo is now a key global partner of the Disney Book Group."

The publisher added: “During his time with Igloo Gregory has delivered consistent and record-breaking levels of profitability for the division. Global distribution has increased significantly with strong growth across North America and Germany in particular. Publishing highlights include Disney’s Advent Calendar, with peak sales of over one million units, bespoke programmes for Aldi, a new partnership with Jeff Kinney’s Wimpy Kid and later this year the launch of Barn Owl, the bold new non-fiction imprint.”

Gregory writes: “I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved at Igloo Books. I always said to Perminder this would be a five-to-six-year role and following an initial overhaul of the business, we established a great team, a clear vision and a strong publishing structure. Igloo is financially strong and stable, best in class with great prospects and I look forward to supporting the business’ continued trajectory in a new advisory capacity.”