Wendy Grisham to launch Hachette US imprint

Hodder Faith publishing director Wendy Grisham is moving to the US to launch new Hachette imprint Jericho Books.

The imprint will be part of Faith Words, with Grisham appointed as publisher and vice-president reporting to senior vice-president Rolf Zettersten. Grisham will be based in Nashville, although she will continue to acquire books for the Hodder Faith team in the UK where appropriate.

Grisham said: "I have had the most wonderful experience during my time with Hodder Faith and I am very sad to be leaving such an excellent team. However, I am so pleased to remain within Hachette and to stay connected with Hodder Faith."

Jericho Books will launch in summer 2012 with 12 titles, with the aim of seeking innovative authors who "reflect a growing change in the church". It is understood that where Grisham acquires world rights to a title, Hodder Faith will be the UK publisher.

Meanwhile, at Hodder Faith, Bibles and digital publisher Ian Metcalf has been promoted to publishing director with immediate effect, having been part of the Hodder Faith team for more than three years. He will be giving up his digital role, and said: "I am delighted to have the chance to build on Wendy's achievements here at Hodder Faith, so as to ensure we remain the publisher of choice in the Christian arena".