Contact: Art Slusark
Phone: (515) 284-3404
Email: aslusark@mdp.com
DES MOINES, IA (January 2, 2002) - Meredith Corporation today named Maureen Ruth Group Publisher of the Meredith Creative Collection and Food Group. Meredith's Creative Collection includes more than 25 various craft magazines, books, calendars and interactive Web sites.
In her new role, Ruth will take on a more prominent role in the development of the Meredith Creative Collection's book annuals and custom publishing business, as well as further expansion of its core publishing businesses in quilting, holiday/seasonal decorating and various other specialty areas. She will work closely with other Meredith operating groups to leverage its 2.5 million plus readership base.
"Maureen's record of success began soon after she joined the Creative Collection in 1995," said Meredith Publishing Group Vice President and Publishing Director Bill Reed. "She's done an outstanding job directing our advertising revenue growth and expanding our product line at the newsstand and in the mail, with over 15 new Special Interest Publications (SIP's) and several new book annual programs. "
Ruth joined Meredith in 1994 as Director of Product Acquisition in the Book Group, after over 15 years in fabric and crafts retail. Following her move to the Creative Collection, she became the advertising director, and in January 2000 she was promoted to Publisher of the group. In June 2001, Ruth assumed responsibility for editorial oversight of the group's SIP's and book annuals. In September, she was named publisher of a newly formed publishing unit, the Food Group, which includes all the food SIP's and Hometown Cooking magazine. She will continue to direct the editorial and business operations of this new group.
