Live Q&A with James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble
James Daunt, the Chief Executive Officer of Barnes & Noble, is set to engage in a live question and answer session, offering insights into his illustrious career and the future of the book industry. As the leader of the world’s largest retail bookseller, Daunt’s journey from independent bookseller to overseeing hundreds of bookstores across the globe is one of inspiration and innovation.
With over three decades of experience in the bookselling realm, James Daunt’s name is synonymous with transformation and revitalization. Eschewing a conventional path in finance, Daunt ventured into the world of books, founding his own bookstore in London in 1990. Daunt Books, as it was aptly named, grew to nine locations, maintaining its independence and distinctive charm under his stewardship.
In 2011, Daunt was appointed Managing Director of Waterstones, a struggling bookstore chain, marking the beginning of a remarkable turnaround. Through strategic vision and astute management, Daunt steered Waterstones back to profitability, earning accolades and recognition for his contributions to the publishing industry. His achievements caught the attention of investors, leading to the acquisition of a majority stake in Waterstones by Elliott Advisors in 2018.
Daunt’s influence expanded beyond the borders of the United Kingdom when Elliott Advisors acquired Barnes & Noble in 2019. Under his leadership, Barnes & Noble has continued to thrive, further solidifying its position as a cornerstone of the book retail landscape. Additionally, the acquisition of Paper Source in 2021 underscored Barnes & Noble’s commitment to diversification and growth.
In addition to his professional achievements, James Daunt’s dedication to literature and bookselling has been celebrated on numerous occasions. His election as an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2017 and his appointment as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2022 are testament to his profound impact on the publishing industry.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to engage with James Daunt and gain valuable insights into the world of bookselling. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a literature enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of retail, this live Q&A promises to be enlightening and inspiring.
