Bonnier Books UK has appointed Deirdre Nolan to lead a new Irish publishing imprint, as part of the company’s long-term growth strategy.
As publishing director, Nolan brings with her 20 years of experience working for independent Irish publishers. She joins Bonnier Books UK from Gill Books, where she worked as associate publisher on a wide range of books across the trade division’s adult non-fiction and children’s list. Prior to Gill Books, Nolan worked at small independent Irish press New Island Books, with a more literary focus. She has previously published authors including Gary Murphy. Manchán Magan, Gina and Karol Daly (The Daly Dish) and Sinead Moriarty.
Based in Dublin, the as yet unnamed imprint will publish 10-12 titles annually for the local market, spanning adult and children’s fiction and non-fiction. The first books will publish in Q4 this year, with the company establishing an Irish office and recruiting locally as the list grows.
Sales, marketing and distribution for the imprint will be managed by Gill Hess Ltd.
Nolan said: “It’s very exciting to be joining an energetic and expanding Bonnier Books UK as they enter the Irish market with a greater strategic focus for growth, and I look forward to working with the best of Irish talent to produce brilliant and beautiful books. While many Irish authors are discovering success, I know there are plenty more to be discovered and under-represented voices to be championed. I greatly enjoyed working with Gill Books, but I’m looking forward to this new challenge. Let the adventure begin!”
Perminder Mann, CEO, Bonnier Books UK, added: “2021 was a record year for Irish book sales and the market is buoyant – establishing a local presence and working more closely with local authors, illustrators and agents will help us to better serve Irish readers. Deirdre’s entrepreneurial spirit, commercial eye and 20 years’ experience with family- owned Irish publishers, make her perfectly placed to succeed in this role. I’m thrilled she’s joining us and really looking forward to working with her.”
Nolan will join the company in February, reporting into Bonnier Books UK CEO Perminder Mann.
