Tim Rix dies

The distinguished industry figure Tim Rix has died.

Rix passed away on Thursday 8th November at the age of 78.

Rix was honorary president of the Independent Publishers Guild from 1993 to 2008 and during a long career in the book industry occupied many senior roles including at Longman, Yale University Press, Blackwell, Frances Lincoln, Jessica Kingsley and at Book Aid International, where he was chair. He was also president of the Publishers Association from 1982-4.

He was made a CBE in 1997.

IPG executive director Bridget Shine said she was "immensely sad" at the news. "He played a key role in the IPG's development and has helped us to become what we are today," she said. "After stepping down as president, Tim became an IPG Patron and remained actively engaged in the IPG's activities. He contributed enormously to independent publishing, and sat on the boards of several IPG members... There will be a lot of people in the book trade who will miss Tim enormously. I certainly will."

Philip Walters, chair of Book Aid International, said: “Tim was a huge support to BAI over the years as a trustee and then chair of the charity. His great wisdom and kindness will be missed by everyone here.”  

Details of a memorial service will be given at a later date.

A full obituary will follow in The Bookseller.