Gareth Rapley to head up LBF team

London, 7 September 2022. RX (Reed Exhibitions) has today announced the appointment of Gareth Rapley as the new Director of The London Book Fair (LBF). The first fair under Gareth’s leadership will take place next year from 18 – 20 April 2023.

Rapley takes over the role from Andy Ventris and will lead the LBF team as it prepares for the 2023 fair when the international publishing community will come together at Olympia London for three days of business, seminars and networking.

With thirteen years of experience delivering large-scale international events, Rapley has worked across a number of industries, including agriculture, finance, technology, and, most recently, the energy sector. Having lived in the UAE for the past three years organising events across the Middle East and Africa, he has recently returned to the UK.

Gareth Rapley, Director of LBF, said: “I am delighted to be joining The London Book Fair as its new Director, and can’t wait to get started in delivering a fantastic offering for the 2023 fair next spring. I know how vital The London Book Fair is for the global publishing community and look forward to building relationships with exhibitors, attendees and stakeholders to ensure that the fair’s important role in the industry continues stronger than ever.”

Kerry Prince, Chief Growth Officer at RX UK, added: “Following the fantastic response to The London Book Fair’s return to a physical event earlier this year, I am pleased that Gareth Rapley will lead our experienced and committed team in preparation for next year’s edition. With Gareth’s years of experience in delivering major events, combined with the insight and passion for publishing of the Advisory Board and our partners around the globe, The London Book Fair will be in safe hands. For over fifty years, The London Book Fair has been a key moment in the publishing calendar for the industry to connect and do business. Gareth will bring a new perspective and a wealth of experience from a range of sectors to the role of Director, laying the foundations for another successful edition of the fair in 2023.”

David Roche, Chair of the LBF Advisory Board, commented: “On behalf of the LBF Advisory Board, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to Gareth Rapley and look forward to working closely together as we prepare for the 2023 fair. The London Book Fair is one of the jewels in the crown of the book world, and 2022 was a particularly special moment when we were able to physically gather again in one place after so long apart. Together with the Advisory Board, I look forward to ensuring all areas of the industry are represented, maintaining the momentum and energy from this year, and creating another fantastic experience for attendees in 2023.”

Further information on The London Book Fair 2023 will be shared in the autumn.