Hachette Australia CEO Matt Richell dies in surfing accident

3 July 2014 Books+Publishing

Matt Richell, CEO of Hachette Australia and chairman of Hachette New Zealand, has died in a surfing accident in Sydney on 2 July.

Hachette Australia said in a statement on 3 July:

‘Today we mourn the sudden and devastating loss of our colleague and friend Matt Richell.

‘Matt was such an outstanding person in so many ways. He was only just hitting his stride as our CEO and his passion, drive and vision for Hachette was so infectious and exciting to be around. He encouraged all of us here to be creative, thoughtful and ambitious on behalf of our authors. There was no greater supporter of authors and their work than Matt. He was so pleased with and proud of everything that Hachette Australia and Hachette New Zealand are accomplishing and all of us here liked and respected him enormously. He was a friend and a mentor to everyone.

‘He loved this industry and everything it represents. The Australian, New Zealand and indeed the global publishing industry has lost a shining light and a true champion. We are grieving but have been deeply moved by the outpouring of support, admiration and love for Matt from all his colleagues and friends—he will be truly missed.

‘Our thoughts are with Matt’s family at this time.’

Tim Hely Hutchinson, CEO of Hachette UK, also released a statement:

‘With great sorrow, and in shock, we have to announce the death of our beloved friend and colleague, Matt Richell, CEO of Hachette Australia and Chairman of Hachette New Zealand, who was tragically killed in a surfing accident today, Wednesday 2 July, in Sydney.

‘Our thoughts and most heartfelt condolences are with Matt’s wife Hannah, his family, his colleagues and many friends in publishing and more widely.’

For those who wish to offer condolences or donate to a charity in Richell’s memory, Hachette Australia has posted information here.

Category: Local news