Smerillo Associates, founded in 2006 by Deirdre and Gary Smerillo, is a consulting firm specializing in contract and royalty management for independent publishers, literary agencies, and other industry professionals.

 

We believe that the future of the publishing industry lies with small, independent presses that are more willing to think outside the box. With their greater flexibility, innovation and entrepreneurial mindsets, independent presses can experiment with new formats and technologies. Their ability to exploit niche markets will provide the best opportunity for growth.

Our clients run the gamut from small literary publishers to major ebook startups.  We tailor each service to our client’s needs and situation, as one size does not fit all.  There is no one correct solution to the problems independent publishers encounter each day.  Creative problem-solving and the ability to explain intellectual property and financial issues clearly and concisely are at the core of what we do.

 

Deirdre’s 40 years’ experience in the book publishing industry includes in-house positions as Director of Contracts for the Hyperion book division of the Walt Disney Company and Director of Contracts for Random House, Inc.  Deirdre has a BA from Rutgers University and a MBA from Monmouth University.

 

Gary, a former educator and musician, has a BA from the University of Dayton and completed the Boston University On-line Program for Financial Planners, having successfully passed the CFP® Examination.  Additionally he has completed the New York University Center for Publishing Book Publishing Program offered through their School of Continuing and Professional Studies.  

 

Melissa Moorehead, the third member of our team, has 30 years’ experience in contracts and rights management.  Working in International Rights and Subsidiary rights at Bantam Doubleday Dell, Scholastic and John Wiley & Sons, she has represented trade products at the Frankfurt, London and Bologna Book Fairs.  Melissa has a BA from Washington College.