Hachette Digital has announced three promotions and two new hires, and Penguin Group has announced a new head of its worldwide digital strategy.
After almost five years at Hachette, Neil DeYoung has been promoted to executive director of Hachette Digital. DeYoung has overseen the growth and management of Hachette's e-book accounts, led its enriched e-book pilot program, and served as project manager for Hachette Book Group's Web site re-launch. Liz Kessler has been hired for the newly created position of digital managing editor, reporting to DeYoung. Kessler will oversee Hachette’s Enriched Content Program and will be a liaison between editorial and IT.
Amy Grillo has been promoted to associate manager, digital book accounts. She will help cover HBG’s existing digital accounts with DeYoung, and will also take on her own accounts. Alessandra Aliquo has been promoted to the newly created position of digital operations and client services coordinator, reporting to Kessler. Aliquo will manage the day-to-day e-book production schedule and coordinate its distribution clients' digital publishing programs. Finally, Paul Florez has been hired as executive administrator for Maja Thomas, senior v-p of Hachette Digital.
Penguin Group has promoted Dan Ruffino to group digital director, responsible for Penguin’s digital strategy worldwide. Ruffino, currently Penguin Australia's marketing and publicity director, will start in his new position on September 1 and be based in New York, reporting to Penguin Group chairman and CEO John Makinson. Ruffino will work with Penguin offices around the world, focusing on digital publishing and new digital revenue opportunities; direct to consumer communication; and global partnerships. He has been with the company for 10 years.
