Andrew Smith is joining the Walker Books Group as senior v-p, publisher of Candlewick Press, Holiday House, and Peachtree for the Walker Books Group in the U.S., effective April 28. In his new role, Smith will report to WBG president and publisher Belinda Ioni Rasmussen and become a member of the global leadership team based out of the New York office. He will manage the publishing lists at Candlewick, Holiday House, and Peachtree following the departures of other longtime editors across the three houses.
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| Andrew Smith | |
Smith is leaving his current role as senior v-p and publisher of Abrams Children's Books and is returning to Candlewick nearly two decades after previously serving as v-p of sales there. He has spent his career in the children's publishing industry. Before joining Abrams in 2016, he was the senior v-p and deputy publisher at Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. He started his career as a bookseller and assistant manager at Waldenbooks in Brooklyn, N.Y. Smith currently serves on the board of directors of the Children's Book Council.
"I've followed Andrew's career for years and have consistently been impressed by everything he's achieved," Rasmussen said. "At Abrams he's delivered results in a challenging marketplace through a thoughtful, strategic, and visionary approach. I am excited about Andrew's bringing that same leadership and inspiration to our publishing at Candlewick, Holiday House, and Peachtree, taking it to new heights. I'm also thrilled to welcome him to the Walker Books Group leadership team at a very exciting time as we gear up for growth."
Smith commented: "I'm thrilled and honored to join the amazingly talented group at Candlewick Press, Holiday House, and Peachtree. I've long admired their commitment to the creative vision of their authors, illustrators, and partners. Their stellar lists and focus and dedication to publishing beautiful, inclusive, and popular books have enriched the lives of countless kids and teens. I look forward to working with the teams in this exciting role to continue to grow, innovate, and reach all kinds of readers in new and groundbreaking ways."