Carolyn Kelly

Clients include: Dr. Sylvia Klötzer, Europa-Universität Viadrina, Frankfurt (Oder), Dr. Jochen Laufer, Zentrum für Zeithistorische Forschung Potsdam, Maik Walter, Stellvertretender Leiter des Studiengebietes Deutsch als Fremdsprache, Freie Universität Berlin, Dr. Sybille Frank, Institut für Soziologie, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Christian Banse, Institut für Soziologie, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Dr. Johannes John, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Head of all of Libri's import activities, encompassing both academic and professional titles, as well as fiction and mass market programmes. My position involved much strategy planning and close consultation with major publishers in the UK and in the US. I was involved in every aspect of the international book trade, including assessing the suitability of publishers to our programme, negotiating deals on terms and conditions, managing stock control, and marketing our range of titles throughout Europe.

My task was to establish, facilitate and support business relationships between British and German companies, particularly in the area of consumer goods. This involved in-depth market analysis of various industries in Germany, followed by a market report for use by UK companies. Compiling these reports required me to analyse and translate much German-language market information into English. I also represented the government organisation UK Trade & Investment at various fairs and conferences around Europe.

Responsible for all aspects of running the business: sales; customer care; purchase and stock control; negotiations with publishing representatives and wholesalers; personnel; accounting; advertising, marketing and public relations; visits to various book fairs; organisation of readings and other events; production of a monthly newsletter as well as textual input for the Web site; establishment and nurturing of contacts with schools, universities, libraries, and other institutions.

Historical guided tours on foot around Berlin. A marvellous city!