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Jon Rippon is leaving Constable & Robinson (C&R) to set up a back-office support business for publishers.
Rippon, C&R's group finance director, is the final board-level manager to leave C&R following its sale to Little, Brown Book Group earlier this year.
His new venture, Rippon Publishing Management, will provide back-office support for businesses looking to outsource tasks such as accounting, sales and royalties and metadata management. It will also assist start-ups, and develop succession plans and exit strategies for established companies.
Rippon, who previously worked as finance director of Frances Lincoln, said the business would help give business solutions for publishers who focused on the creative aspects of the business. He said: "After enjoying the last 15 years involved in the running and growth of two well-respected and successful independent publishers, it is clear to me that there is a place in the market for an effective back-office service provider. As well as offering the services of industry experienced finance directors, our clients can outsource to Rippon Publishing Management a range of business functions that are often a frustration to their creative owners and managers."
Little, Brown bought C&R in February this year, following the death last year of former chair Nick Robinson. Pete Duncan, m.d. now reports into Little, Brown publisher David Shelley, while Robinson's wife Nova left the company. Following the acquisition, it was announced that a number of roles would be consulted on.
Little, Brown has since created a new editorial division incorporating the Piatkus, Constable and Robinson imprints.
Commenting on Rippon's departure from C&R, Shelley said: "Jon was incredibly helpful and professional throughout Little, Brown’s acquisition of Constable & Robinson, and has been a wonderful support in the months following the acquisition. He is a great colleague and has been invaluable for us during the integration process."
Nova Robinson added: "On engaging in the sale process of C&R to Little, Brown, Jon excelled beyond my expectations, leading the due diligence process, an extremely complex exchange of data and sensitive information, in an apparently seamless manner, impressing all professionals involved. Handled with incredible understanding of the difficulties and with kindness, I will remember the quiet offer of a cuppa throughout the day we announced the sale, a stressful day for all. Jon remained a support for everyone."