Imagine That launches US office with Beckett

Independent children’s publisher Imagine That is setting up an office in North America.

The office will be based in New York and run by Risa Beckett, who has been appointed to the role of vice president of North American Sales.

Beckett’s role will be to grow the company in the US, raising awareness of Imagine That’s titles by working with new and existing customers and by developing ties with retail brands. She will also strengthen ties with the Independent Publishers Group (IPG). She will report to sales director Steve Munnings.

David Henderson, m.d. at Imagine That Publishing commented: “I am delighted to be welcoming Risa to the Imagine That team. We have had an astounding 2018 as we celebrated 20 years ofi independent publishing, and another strong year of growth. Risa’s experience, expertise and enthusiasm will further strengthen the team and the company as we look to continue our growth trajectory and our commitment to publish entertaining children’s books, inspiring them to read, learn, play and create.”

Beckett added: “I am thrilled to be joining such an innovative and dynamic group of professionals. The Imagine That line has something for everyone and I am eager to strengthen existing partnerships as well as find new homes for the product coming from our talented publishing team. Every child’s library would not be complete without an Imagine That offering.”

Earlier this year Imagine That hired several former Bonnier employees, including Ross Taylor as operations manager. Henderson has also hired Hayley Maye, formerly of Little Tiger Press and Igloo Books, as senior production controller, and Gemma Cooper as project editor.