Macmillan NZ’s David Joel retiring

The longstanding Managing Director for Macmillan in New Zealand, David Joel, retires in April.

David (pictured right, with Kevin Chapman, left), who will only admit to being 30-something years in the role, gave a droll speech at a small PANZ function held in HarperCollins’ boardroom last week to recognise his contribution to publishing over the years.

He said the secret of his longevity as an MD was “staying below the radar.” David also encouraged those working with him to participate... “I believed it was better to be asked for forgiveness rather than being constantly sought after for permission.”

Former colleagues Joan Mackenzie and Chris Baty were there to acknowledge David, and Ross Gibb, MD of Macmillan Australia was also at the drinks event.

“On the one hand, with publishing at one of its lower ebbs over 25 years or so, I thought I ought to stay and deal with the challenge, but on the other hand it is a good time to go. “We are still word merchants. People are still going to read, in whatever form.”

Kevin Chapman recalled asking David why Macmillan hadn’t joined the forerunner of PANZ. “He told me it was because I’d never asked. So I sent him a bill and he paid it. David ran a good business and quietly and efficiently undertook part in the publishing industry here. Life will be duller without DJ.”

David and Bronwyn are moving to Queenstown for their retirement.

Report from PANZ