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Ultimo Press managing director and founder James Kellow steps down
Ultimo Press m.d. and founder James Kellow – who launched the indie publisher from Sydney in 2020 – is leaving the business.
It was announced earlier this year that he was returning to the UK to lead the expansion of the business in the UK and establish its sales, marketing and publicity needs.
Formerly c.e.o. of HarperCollins Australia, Kellow launched Ultimo as an “independent press backed by Hardie Grant” and distributed by Macmillan Distribution in the UK.
Having now embedded Ultimo in the Hardie Grant UK operation, Kellow “believes this is an appropriate moment to relinquish his role as managing director for Ultimo Press in Australia and the UK”, a Hardie Grant press release stated. Robert Watkins will be leading the Ultimo team, working closely with Hardie Grant Books managing director Roxy Ryan.
Kellow said: “It has been the privilege of my career to create a vibrant, new publishing business in a market I care so deeply about – and to watch it grow and thrive from launch to ABIA Book of the Year Winner 2022, and now to be establishing a presence in the UK market. I’m deeply indebted to my colleagues for all the passion, commitment, and hard yards they’ve contributed to the cause and will be watching, applauding and cheering Ultimo on in the future. My grateful thanks to Sandy, Julie and the Hardie Grant team for their generous support and encouragement and for believing in the Ultimo vision.”
Hardie Grant said: “Ultimo Press, under James’ leadership, has been an immediate success and an imprint to be proud of. The results have been tangible, with authors and their books winning major awards and strong sales. The Sydney team have a very strong list commissioned for 2023/24 – a legacy James will be leaving his colleagues.”
Sandy Grant, chief executive of Hardie Grant, said: “James is a talented and collegiate leader who has done a fantastic job launching Ultimo Press in Sydney. We’ll miss his dynamic presence.”
Kellow’s final day in the role will be 30th June, though he will continue to consult for Hardie Grant and Ultimo Press in the UK for some months to support ongoing marketing and communications opportunities.
