HarperCollins has promoted Liate Stehlik to CEO and publisher for U.S. Trade, overseeing the company's adult and children's trade publishing divisions and sales in the United States.
Stehlik, who has been at HarperCollins for 20 years, moves up from her previous role as president and publisher of the Morrow Group and HarperCollins Children's Books, where she oversaw publishing operations for 18 imprints.
She joined HarperCollins in 2005 as publisher of Avon Books, was appointed president and publisher of the Morrow Group in 2018, and took on oversight of HarperCollins Children's Books in 2023. She also led the publishing integration of HMH Books and Media.
Stehlik's track record includes strong financial results: Under her leadership, the Morrow group increased revenues 50% and profits approximately 20%, while the children's group saw a more than 100% increase in profitability, according to a statement from the publisher. She has also overseen the publication of some of HarperCollins's largest global franchises, including Narnia, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Agatha Christie.
"It is both a tremendous privilege and an exciting responsibility to step into this role," Stehlik said. "I'm eager to work alongside our talented teams, authors, and partners to build on that legacy and to champion bold storytelling and innovative publishing for the future."
She will continue to report to HarperCollins president and CEO Brian Murray. Reporting to Stehlik are Jonathan Burnham, president and publisher of the Harper Group; Judith Curr, president and publisher of the HarperOne Group; and Doug Lockhart, in his role as interim president of sales. Stehlik will continue to oversee the Morrow group and children’s division.
“At this time of tremendous technological and cultural change, Liate’s vision, integrity, and leadership make her the perfect fit for this role," Murray said in a statement. "I look forward to partnering with her on the strategy and execution for the future."
