michael_martens.jpgSome big changes at IDW’s book trade department as Michael Martens has been hired as Director of Trade Sales, effective immediately. The move comes just as IDW is moving to distribution via Penguin Random House in April, and Martens’ experience with this from his time at Dark Horse will certainly come in handy.

It also follows former IDW Director of Book Market Sales Rosalind Morehead moving over to DC as Manager, Consumer Marketing.

Martens has more than three decades of experience, from his time with Capitol Distribution to serving as book sales director at Dark Horse. He’s certainly one of the smartest people in the game for graphic novel sales, and having a steady hand overseeing the move to the new distributor is sure to serve as a boost.

IDW’s president and COO Greg Goldstein agrees. “Michael was, and continues to be, a key player in pioneering the graphic novel category in libraries and bookstores. His expertise and unparalleled relationship with our new distribution partner will give IDW an even greater advantage for continual success and steady growth in today’s competitive market.”

Martens resigned from Dark Horse last year, where his final titles was VP of Trade Sales. He had been consulting since then, including with IDW.

“While consulting with IDW during their integration with Penguin Random House it was clear to me how strong the IDW and Top Shelf lines are so I jumped at the chance when they offered me a more formal arrangement,” said Martens in a statement. “I’m looking forward to maintaining the incredible momentum of the March series as well as positioning their many other important titles in a way they can be discovered by new readers.”

IDW has a strong line of GNs (including the Top shelf library) and this just made it stronger.