New Delhi: In 18 short years, David Shelley has gone from being an editorial assistant and then publishing director at independent publisher Allison and Busby, to becoming chief executive of Hachette UK last month-a career that's nothing short of phenomenal. Along the way, the Oxford graduate in English literature has also been the CEO of Little, Brown and Orion.
Shelley is seen as one of the hottest young talents in global publishing and has worked with authors such as J.K. Rowling and Mitch Albom. A passionate advocate for publishers adapting to the digital environment, Shelley also oversees Hatchette UK's inclusion initiative, Changing the Story. In the country for Hachette India's 10th anniversary celebrations, the 41-year-old Shelley spoke about his career, publishing in the digital world, audiobooks, the company's diversity initiatives and plans for India.