Jane Winterbotham, the esteemed editor-at-large and former deputy managing director at Walker Books, has confirmed her retirement effective at the end of May. Her remarkable journey at Walker spans more than two decades, marking her as a significant force in shaping the company’s direction.

A Legacy of Leadership

Winterbotham joined Walker Books over 25 years ago as a publishing director, transitioning from Reed/Egmont. She was among the first to take on a directorial role after the company’s founding, becoming instrumental in maintaining its core mission.

Commitment to Authors and Staff

Walker Books highlighted Winterbotham’s unwavering focus on nurturing the author- and artist-centered ethos established by co-founder Sebastian Walker. Her approach included substantial support for both her staff and the varied literary offerings of the company.

Notable Contributions

Throughout her tenure, she has significantly impacted the literary landscape. One of her notable achievements includes overseeing the publication of Stormbreaker, the inaugural book in the acclaimed Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz, which has become a bestseller and expanded into a successful franchise with 13 additional titles under her guidance.

Winterbotham’s collaborations with numerous prominent authors have further enriched Walker’s catalog. She worked closely with celebrated poet and author Michael Rosen, urging him to produce innovative and engaging books, including a highly anticipated illustrated edition of Hot Food Nice and the forthcoming title Oh Dear, Look What I Got!, featuring Helen Oxenbury.

Supporting the Next Generation

She has also been a vital partner to beloved children’s author Shirley Hughes, bringing new works to life during Hughes’s later years. Winterbotham’s role in helping to establish new voices at Walker cannot be overstated, having notably brought authors such as David Almond, Jandy Nelson, and most recently, Richard Ayoade into the fold.

Investing in New Brands

Moreover, her strategic vision led to strong investments in new literary brands, exemplified by the acquisition of bestselling series from authors like Cassandra Clare.

Looking Ahead

As Winterbotham prepares to step down, her impact remains evident in the books scheduled for release this autumn, which reflect her commitment to quality storytelling and the nurturing of literary talent. Her legacy at Walker Books is sure to resonate for years to come.