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DK's international publishing and licensing director Emma James is to leave after 24 years with the company and she will be succeeded by Nina Scales.
Scales, currently at American multinational Hasbro, will report directly to DK c.e.o. Carsten Coesfeld. Scales will join the business on 4th October. James will stay with DK until the end of the year to aid the transition process.
James (pictured, top), who focused on developing DK’s business in many key markets such as in Asia and Latin America, said: “I have immensely enjoyed all these years at DK and my deep appreciation goes to a wonderful and talented international team. Our books really sell themselves and are a testament to my brilliant, creative colleagues. I’d like to thank our truly supportive partners around the globe who are so very good at what they do – they have made my job a real joy.”
When asked about next steps, she told The Bookseller: "Travel will definitely be part of my plans, but all other ideas for the future will be put to one side until I have finished my time at DK at the end of this year."
Coesfeld said: “After an impressive 24 years, Emma leaves behind a great legacy for our international publishing. I’d like to thank Emma for her relentless contribution; she is the epitome of a DK colleague: passionate, creative, ambitious and dedicated. We wish her every success and happiness for her next step beyond DK.”
He said of Scales' appointment: “Nina has extensive expertise working in international markets, and with her background in creative media, she brings a new and different perspective to DK. Her deep knowledge within the world of content licensing – coupled with her passion for our books, her ambition and drive – will be invaluable in the development of our international business and leading our first-class IPL team.”
Scales (pictured, right) has more than 20 years' experience within the media and TV sector. Working for Hasbro for the past nine years, she built its content and rights business globally and helped it become a digital-first business and its transformation into a global branded play and entertainment company.
She commented: “As a lifelong fan of DK, I am so honoured to be joining the talented and dynamic team, especially at such an exciting time in the company’s history. I look forward to meeting and working with DK’s global network of customers and partners and building on Emma’s success.”