Powell to step down as c.e.o. of Boydell & Brewer

James Powell will step down as c.e.o. of independent academic publisher Boydell & Brewer in January 2024. 

Powell said: “Boydell & Brewer is a brilliant company to work for. I have loved the fabulous content and inspiring partnerships that we always manage to attract. I have some remarkable colleagues and between us we have implemented rapid change and delivered some excellent results. I have been in charge of two high-quality academic publishers in 22 of the last 25 years. I have reached a stage in life where I want to move away from full-time management but still pursue projects within publishing. I am grateful for the opportunity I have been given and I will always be a supporter of employee ownership of which Boydell is a fine example.” 

Edward Milford, group chair, added: “Boydell has thrived under James’ leadership. In five years, he has overseen the overhaul of practically every function within the company and achieved excellent results in what has been a challenging environment for independent publishing. He leaves the business in robust health which presents a wonderful opportunity for his successor.” 

The search for Powell’s successor is being exclusively managed by Inspired Search. Abigail Barclay, search director, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Boydell & Brewer on this assignment. This is a truly fantastic opportunity for a successor to James to carry on his positive impact into the next chapter of a successful independent publisher.”