Michael J. Martens has joined IDW Publishing as Director of Trade Sales, the company has announced. Beginning in April, Penguin Random House will be IDW’s distribution partner for trade paperbacks and hardcovers to book and mass markets. In his new position, Martens will serve as the publisher’s direct liaison.
Martens has over 30 years of experience in the industry with vast knowledge of the comic and book industries. His understanding of the markets will extend IDW’s reach in bookstores around the world, bringing their library of backlist content to new readers in the marketplace.
Before joining IDW he worked at Dark Horse Comics as VP of Marketing, VP of Business Development, and VP of Trade Sales. Before that, his career began at Capital City Distribution as one of their first employees, in 1982, where he worked as Transportation Manager, Sales Manager, and Vice President of Customer Service.
“Michael was, and continues to be, a key player in pioneering the graphic novel category in libraries and bookstores,” said Greg Goldstein, IDW’s President and COO. “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.”
“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,” Martens said. “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.”