Gomez Named to Online Spot at Penguin

By Jim Milliot -- Publishers Weekly, 9/13/2007 7:53:00 AM

Looking to broaden its online sales and marketing efforts, Penguin Group USA has named Jeff Gomez to the position of senior director of online consumer sales and marketing. Gomez, currently director of Internet marketing for Holtzbrinck Publishers, starts October 29 and will report directly to Penguin CEO David Shanks. In his new role, Gomez will oversee the future development of Penguin’s Web site and look for ways to build new platforms for bringing authors, their books and readers together online.

Penguin was the first major publisher to sell directly to consumers through its Web site, and the company said it plans to enhance the site to attract more readers. Upgrades are planned for several existing features, including podcasts of author interviews and author video clips. "Penguin Group USA pioneered selling directly to consumers through our Web site and Jeff will take us forward as we navigate this ever-changing marketplace," said Penguin president Susan Petersen Kennedy.