International Literary Properties (ILP) is strengthening its leadership team with the appointment of two seasoned publishing executives to its literary division, signaling continued expansion for the global literary and theatrical rights company. James Meader has been named President of Publishing for ILP Literary, while Jennifer Bassuk will serve as President of Partnerships. Both executives joined the company’s New York office on January 5.
Meader and Bassuk will work alongside Mary Durkan, who continues to lead ILP’s London office in her global leadership role. The pair will also collaborate closely with ILP’s theatrical division, led by CEO Michael Barra and Chairman Tom McGrath. Meanwhile, current ILP Literary CEO Scott Hoffman has transitioned into a consulting role and is expected to announce a new venture in the near future.
ILP Executive Chair Milena Alberti said the company is excited to welcome the two industry veterans as the organization continues to grow. She pointed to Meader’s publishing leadership experience and Bassuk’s extensive media and technology background as key assets that will help expand ILP’s reach and impact.
Founded in 2020, ILP focuses on acquiring, managing, and expanding the legacies of major literary creators and estates. The company works with authors, playwrights, lyricists, composers, and heirs to bring classic works to new audiences through publishing, theater, television, film, and other formats. Its portfolio includes iconic names such as Tennessee Williams, Langston Hughes, Somerset Maugham, Paddy Chayefsky, and Marsha Norman, among others.
Meader brings nearly 25 years of publishing experience, most recently serving as Associate Publisher at Penguin Random House’s Vintage Books, where he oversaw major imprints including Vintage Classics and Everyman’s Library. His career has spanned editorial, marketing, and publicity roles, with a strong focus on working with authors and literary estates to preserve legacies while introducing classic works to new generations of readers.
Bassuk brings more than two decades of experience building strategic partnerships across publishing, media, and digital platforms. Her previous leadership roles include positions at Amazon, Audible, and News Corp, where she led global licensing deals, acquisitions, and collaborations with authors and content partners. A former attorney and board advisor, she is widely recognized as a skilled dealmaker with a strong international network.
With these appointments, ILP aims to accelerate its mission of preserving literary legacies while creating new opportunities for storytelling across global platforms, connecting classic voices with modern audiences worldwide.