Bristol University Press (BUP) is delighted to announce that Kathryn Earle will join the BUP team as the new CEO, effective July 20th, 2026. Kathryn brings over three decades of experience in scholarly and digital publishing, joining BUP from Bloomsbury Publishing, where she has most recently been Managing Director of Bloomsbury Digital Resources, leading the strategy, development, and global delivery of the company’s extensive portfolio of scholarly digital resources.
Her appointment marks the start of a new chapter, in which she will work with the Press’ Senior Management Team to develop a new five-year strategic plan for the Press, a period marked by ambition and continued international growth. Her experience in academic publishing and digital innovation, as well as her knowledge of academic communities, will be an invaluable addition in shaping BUP's future direction.
Kathryn’s comment on joining BUP:
“I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed CEO of Bristol University Press. BUP has seen extraordinary growth since its set-up a decade ago, which drew on the outstanding foundations of Policy Press. Alison Shaw has driven the vision for both Policy and BUP, and leaves very big shoes to fill. I feel privileged to have been chosen to steer the next phase of BUP’s growth as her successor, and look forward to working with the BUP team, the university and the broader academic community.”
Kathryn will succeed Alison Shaw, who will retire at the end of July. Alison founded and led BUP and its imprint, Policy Press, for over 35 years. During her tenure, Alison has overseen the press through exceptional growth and reputational success. The Press has expanded to publish over 250 new books annually and 26 journals and has published many award-winning titles and received numerous industry nominations, including winning the IPG Independent Academic, Education and Professional Publisher of the Year in 2024, and previously for Policy Press in 2016.
Alison Shaw's comment:
“It has been a privilege to work with our fantastic team through the development of both Policy Press and Bristol University Press. I am thrilled to be handing over to Kathryn, whose experience, vision and commitment to mission‑led publishing is underpinned by strong commercial instincts and success, making her an outstanding successor. I know the Press will thrive under Kathryn’s leadership and I wish her and the team every success for the future.
From 20 July 2026, Kathryn will oversee the Senior Management Team, including the Editorial Director, Journals and Open Access Director, Sales and Marketing Director, Head of Finance, and Head of Production.
