What's Happening?
Ashleigh Gardner has returned to Rakuten Kobo as Vice President of Self-Publishing and Kobo Originals. Gardner previously worked at Rakuten Kobo from 2010 to 2013 and has since held positions at Wattpad
and as an independent consultant. In her new role, Gardner will focus on identifying new talent, building global author platforms, and developing a robust publishing program to expand Kobo's market reach, particularly in Europe.
Why It's Important?
Gardner's return to Rakuten Kobo is significant for the company's strategic growth in the digital publishing space. Her experience and innovative approach are expected to enhance Kobo's offerings for authors and readers, potentially increasing its competitive edge in the self-publishing market. This move aligns with Kobo's goals to strengthen its presence in Europe and support emerging authors, which could lead to increased diversity and innovation in digital publishing.
What's Next?
Gardner will be based in Toronto and is expected to lead initiatives that expand Kobo's author and reader base. Her focus on global author platforms may result in new partnerships and publishing opportunities, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic digital publishing environment. The emphasis on expanding Kobo's market reach in Europe suggests potential collaborations and strategic developments in the region.
