August 6th 2024.
In a recent press release shared with Black Enterprise, it was announced that Gabrielle Gambrell has been appointed as the new senior vice president and chief communications officer of Hachette Book Group. This news comes after Hachette's CEO, David Shelley, revealed on August 1st that Gambrell will be taking over the position from current communications SVP, Sophie Cottrell. As a new member of the executive management team, Gambrell will have a wide range of responsibilities, including overseeing the Hachette Speakers Bureau and all branding, corporate, internal, and executive communications.
In addition to these roles, Gambrell will also be in charge of media relations, strategic communications, trade fairs, the company's environmental program, philanthropic initiatives, and collaboration with Hachette's United Kingdom branch. Shelley expressed his excitement about working with Gambrell, stating that her creativity and expertise will bring a fresh perspective to the company. He said, "I'm thrilled to have Gabrielle on board. Her flair, creativity, and diverse experience in various industries will greatly benefit us in spreading the message about the new worlds of ideas, entertainment, learning, and opportunity that books offer."
Gambrell's career in mass communications began as a Production and Talent Assistant for Disney. She then went on to work for ABC's "Live with Regis and Kelly," which won an Emmy Award. Most recently, she served as the head of communications for Inclusive Experiences and Technology, Employee Experience at Amazon. Prior to that, she made history as the first Black woman and youngest person to lead the marketing and communications department at Barnard College of Columbia University as the chief marketing & communications officer.
Gambrell shared her excitement about joining the Hachette community during this time of transformation. She said, "As a lover of stories, I am thrilled to be a part of the executive management team at HBG during this exciting time. I'm sure many of you have read some of Hachette's acclaimed books, and as a storyteller myself, I am eager to elevate this world-renowned brand and showcase all that HBG has to offer. The publishing industry has a profound impact on the world, shaping our understanding of information, thoughts, curiosity, and imagination. With David's vision for the company's future, I believe HBG has limitless potential to reach new heights."
Gambrell has previously managed communication teams at various companies, including FCB Global, NBCUniversal, and CBS Corporation, where she was a founding member of the company's first diversity council. According to Publisher's Weekly, Cottrell, who has been with HBG for 22 years, will be stepping down from her role as communications SVP at the end of August 2024. She stated that she wants to take a break and reflect on her next career move.
As we wait to see what Gambrell will bring to the table as the new chief communications officer, we can also check out some engaging summer reads by Black authors, as recommended by HBG. With a dynamic and creative leader like Gambrell at the helm, we can only expect great things from Hachette Book Group in the future.
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