Driven by over 16 years of working in the publishing industry, I’m passionate about working with writers to support, inspire and motivate them to reach their potential through overcoming personal barriers, realistic goal-setting and improving skills. I coach writers one-to-one, either with or without editorial feedback, to empower them to achieve their writing goals. By pairing my editorial expertise with coaching skills, I help writers achieve positive, barrier-breaking results that last long after our session have ended.I share my passion to groups of writers through free #MondayMotivation live sessions, where I offer weekly encouragement and writing tips. I also host a free community group Motivation for Writers! where I share more tips and support. I run group coaching sessions and workshops online that provide practical, though-provoking writing advice, tips all delivered in my positive, friendly and upbeat style. I'm available for speaking engagements, delivering informative and inspiring writing workshops and presentations for events.I am also fully trained Wedding and Life Celebrant, accredited by the Fellowship of Professional Celebrants. I create bespoke, uplifting ceremonies for all life events that deserve to be celebrated including Weddings, Baby Namings and Renewal of Vows. I primarily work in and around London, Surrey and Leicestershire. Contact me for more information: joannemgrant@outlook.com

As part of the executive leadership team at Harlequin, was a key steer for the editorial direction of the company's iconic global Romance Series business consisting of 66 books per month/792 per annum. Managed a team of 38 editors across 3 locations - Toronto, New York and London and worked closely with all key publishing functions based in North America including Marketing, Art, Legal, Production and Sales. Worked as key Editorial point of contact for global stakeholders to advise on content and strategic publishing. Represented the company at international conferences and go to Series Romance expert for media requests including print media, TV and radio.

Led a team of 14 editors based in London, responsible for overall acquisition and publication of 24 books per month/288 per annum for the iconic Mills & Boon brand (Harlequin in North America). Successfully transitioned team from a period of unrest due to senior team restructure and subsequent office relocation to central London following a company takeover.

Led direction of assigned romance series of books and responsible for quality of editorial content and overall cohesive package including art, title and cover copy.Management of personal author base of approximate 15 authors/30 manuscripts per annum including structural editors, story development, line edits, career guidance and contract negotiations.

From entry level role: Editorial Service Assistant to Editor. Key achievements and responsibilities:Implementation of new in-house publishing scheduling systemManagement of consumer panelAuthor acquisition and management of approximately 30 authors/50 manuscripts per annum. Repackaging of North American book packaging and copy for UK audienceRita nominated editor