A new literary agency for Ireland, Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin is appointed Chair of the Society of Authors, and an exciting opening with Children’s Books Ireland
It’s all happening this month with some big changes, announcements, and opportunities. Vanessa Fox O’Loughlin has been appointed as the new Chair of the Society of Authors, taking over from Joanna Harris. O’Loughlin has spent years helping, promoting, and advising authors through her consultancy agency The Inkwell Group, and is the founder of the powerhouse of resources and opportunities Writing.ie, alongside being a bestselling crime novelist under her nom de plume Sam Blake, so she is well equipped to take on the role.
O’Loughlin said it will be a year of change ahead for the SoA. “It is a great privilege to take on this role from Joanne, and I look forward to working with board members and the staff team on the challenges ahead. We are seeing many already – from AI to falling incomes, not to mention cyber-attacks on the institutions that pay authors. I can’t wait to get started.”
Launch of Conor Nagle Literary Agency
While there is an established number of Irish literary agents—the likes of Marianne Gunn O’Connor and Faith O’Grady—it’s no secret that for many Irish writers the road to publication has meant finding representation with a UK agent.
Conor Nagle wants to bring the focus back to Irish authors and Irish publishers with the launch of his new literary agency. Most recently a publisher with HarperCollins Ireland and previously a commissioning editor with Gill Books, Nagle has worked with authors such as Matt Cooper, Philly McMahon and Jim McGuinness. Nagle told The Bookseller that he saw a real need in Ireland “for a new and more dynamic form of author representation—an agency that could take a more hands-on role, yes, in identifying and really developing talent, but also in helping authors settle into longer and more fulfilling creative partnerships.” You can reach him at conor@thenagleagency.com.
Children’s Books Ireland seeks Communication Manager
An exciting job opportunity has opened up with Children’s Books Ireland, an organisation headed up by CEO Elaina Ryan which works towards making every child a reader. CBI has been responsible for a whole range of worthwhile initiatives such as book gifting and book clinics for young people, and is a well of resources and ideas for teachers and families.
Children’s Books Ireland are now seeking a Communications Manager who will play a vital role within the organisation, engaging with a wide community of artists, schools, families and the public while also highlighting the impact of the work of CBI to existing partners and funders. They will work with the team across various activities, including publications, professional development, book gifting, events, advocacy and fundraising. The successful candidate will liaise with external partners and suppliers including PR agencies, corporate partners and funders, photographers and videographers.
For full details on the position and how to apply, please see here. Children’s Books Ireland.
Teerth Chungh appointed Interim Director of the Irish Writers Centre
Following the departure of Director Valerie Bistany after a decade at the Irish Writers Centre, Teerth Chungh has taken up the role of Interim Director of the IWC. Teerth has more than thirty years experience working in the arts sector, and has worked as CEO of major arts organisations.
