Ryan named Avon deputy publishing director amid string of appointments

Avon has announced a string of new appointments and promotions across the division, with Thorne Ryan taking on the newly created role of deputy publishing director.

She had previously been covering Helen Huthwaite’s parental leave as publishing director. Huthwaite will return later this year.

Oli Malcolm, executive publisher, said: “Thorne has made a huge impact in a short time, and I am sure her authors will be as delighted as I am that Thorne is now confirmed as a permanent senior member of the Avon team.” 

Ryan added: “From the moment I joined Avon, it felt like I’d found my publishing home. I am so happy that I’ll get to continue to be part of one of the most dynamic, passionate and effective teams in the business, and that I will be working with Helen to grow it into an even more formidable market presence than it is now. I’ve enjoyed some exciting career highlights already at Avon – including publishing C L Taylor’s The Guilty Couple into the Sunday Times Top 10, originating and acquiring a number of high-potential IP projects and managing the whole team across editorial, marketing and publicity – and I can’t wait to build on this in my new permanent role.” 

The editorial team will be joined by Rachel Hart from Welbeck, who will take on the role of commissioning editor from 31st October. Ryan said: “Rachel perfectly embodies Avon’s entrepreneurial spirit, commercial nous and ownership mentality, and I know that she’s going to do brilliant things here.” 

Elisha Lundin is also promoted to assistant editor and the division has welcomed Raphaella Demetris as editorial assistant. Ryan said: “Since she started at Avon last January, Elisha has been an invaluable member of the team and after her acquisition of a hugely exciting World War Two timeslip novel (more news to come on that soon!) she richly deserves her promotion. Raphaella comes to us from the HarperCollins Early Careers scheme and impressed us immediately with her resourcefulness and dynamism.” 

Joining the Avon communications team are Gabriella Drinkald from Midas PR as publicity manager, and Maddie Dunne Kirby from Welbeck as marketing manager. Ryan commented: “Both Maddie and Gabriella stood out to us the moment we met them due to their deep experience, creativity and market knowledge. I am thrilled that they will both be bringing their considerable talents to bear on Avon’s publishing.” 

She added: “Helen and I couldn’t be happier to announce these new appointments and promotions across the division. They mark the beginning of an exciting new phase of Avon’s evolution – watch this space!”