Egmont Promotes Execs

U.K.-based children’s publisher Egmont Publishing has promoted Sarah Bates, Ali Dougal and John Packard within its U.K. Books team.

First, Bates has been appointed to the role of commercial director of the books division in the U.K.–a new role that spans fiction, picture books, non-fiction, gift and brands and licensing. Prior to her appointment, Bates was the director of Egmont Creative Solutions and prior to that held the position of brands and licensing publishing director at Egmont in the U.K.

Next, Dougal was promoted to the role of fiction publishing director and will lead a team of five editors. Dougal previously served as editorial director for fiction at Egmont.

Finally, Packard has been appointed to the role of brands and licensing publishing director. Previously, Packard served as publisher of top brands, including Star Wars, “Minecraft” and “Halo,” as well as of Egmont’s annuals range.

“Sarah, Ali and John are already Egmont stars and I’m thrilled to be harnessing their talent in these new roles,” says Cally Poplak, managing director, Egmont Publishing U.K. “I am excited about the publishing flair across all strands of the list and expert understanding of what children love to read, because Egmont is about making all children believe that reading is for them through a portfolio that champions wonderful writers and illustrators and much-loved characters and brands.”