What's Happening?
Julie Schaper, president of Consortium Book Sales & Distribution, has announced her retirement effective June 2026. Schaper has been with Consortium for over 30 years, starting as a sales director in 1994 and becoming president in 2001. Under her leadership, Consortium expanded its representation from 27 publishers to nearly 170, focusing on literary presses and poetry publishers. The company underwent several ownership changes, ultimately becoming part of Ingram Content Group in 2016. Schaper plans to assist in the transition by working with her successor until her retirement. She intends to travel post-retirement with her spouse, Steve Horwitz.
Why It's Important?
Schaper's retirement marks the end of a significant era for Consortium, a key player in the distribution of literary and poetry publishers. Her leadership contributed to the company's growth and reputation in the industry. The transition to new leadership presents opportunities for Consortium to adapt to changing market dynamics and continue its legacy of supporting independent publishers. Schaper's departure may influence the strategic direction of the company, impacting its relationships with publishers and its role in the literary community. The search for a successor will be crucial in maintaining the company's stability and future growth.
What's Next?
Consortium will focus on finding a suitable successor to lead the company, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in operations. The new president will need to navigate the challenges of the distribution industry, including digital transformation and market competition. Consortium may explore new strategies to expand its portfolio and enhance its services to publishers. The transition period will involve collaboration between Schaper and her successor to uphold the company's standards and relationships. The industry will watch closely to see how Consortium adapts to leadership changes and potential shifts in its business model.
Beyond the Headlines
Schaper's retirement highlights the broader trend of leadership transitions in the publishing industry, which may lead to shifts in company strategies and industry dynamics. Her career reflects the evolution of distribution companies from independent entities to parts of larger conglomerates, illustrating changes in business models and market pressures. The focus on literary and poetry publishers underscores the importance of niche markets in the publishing ecosystem, which may continue to thrive under new leadership. Schaper's legacy may inspire future leaders to prioritize innovation and adaptability in the face of industry challenges.
