Rizzoli International Publications has restructured its U.S. publishing subsidiary in a move that will bring its two divisions, Rizzoli and Universe Publishing, closer together. As a result of the consolidation, eight of the company's 47 positions are being eliminated. Among those leaving is Marta Hallett, who had been Rizzoli publisher since February 1999. Charles Miers, publisher of Universe, has been appointed v-p and publisher of both Rizzoli and Universe.
Other managers who will now oversee combined departments for both Rizzoli and Universe include Bonnie Eldon, associate publisher; Matthew Ballast, publicity and promotions manager; and John Dean, sales manager. A new member of the executive team is John Brancati, who has been named v-p and director of marketing and sales. Brancati had been v-p of Rizzoli Bookstores, and he will continue to oversee the chain, which is in the process of closing all but its New York store (News, May 14).
Rizzoli and Universe publish about 60 titles each annually, with Universe publishing approximately 70 calendars. A spokesperson said that because of the weak economy Rizzoli is looking to focus its list. No cuts in the 2002 list are planned, although fewer titles are expected to be released in 2003.
Rizzoli is the second major illustrated book publisher to downsize within the last month. In mid-November, Harry Abrams said it was cutting 25 jobs (News, Nov. 19).
