eReader gets new chief

[Bob Russell]

There is a new head of the eReader division of Motricity. According to the Motricity press release, "Motricity, a leading provider of mobile content solutions to the wireless industry, today announced that it has named business development executive Elizabeth Mackey as vice president and general manager of the company's eReader division—one of the world's largest electronic book publishers. Mackey brings a wealth of experience as a former executive of several leading publishers and media companies, including audio-book leader Audible, Inc. and Franklin Electronic Publishers. Her appointment is directly related to Motricity's ongoing investment in strengthening its business-to-consumer market channel and follows the recent appointment of Kathleen Stockham, former head of marketing at BestBuy.com, as vice president of Commerce.

" 'With her proven entrepreneurial expertise and in-depth knowledge of ebook technology and licensing, Elizabeth is a crucial addition to our eReader team,' said Ryan Wuerch, chairman and CEO for Motricity. 'She will strategically develop and lead Motricity's efforts to provide the most compelling mobile commerce ebook experience for consumers.'

"Mackey will be responsible for directing all business development and operations for eReader..."

Mackey's previous experience includes time with Audible, Franklin Electronic Publishers, as well as the publishing industry and working in media corporations.

We've seen the web site at eReader become pretty stagnant and outdated in recent years, with the exception of new titles, and the software itself has not exactly been moving forward quickly with new versions and features. A change is likely to help shake things up if she doesn't get so focused on business development that the operations side suffers. In terms of a customer's perspective, the key person is probably whoever is slotted to be reporting to her, in charge of operations.

via TeleRead