Amanda Harris, the Global Managing Director of YMU Literary, will be leaving the British agency next year to embark on a new journey by launching her own talent business. Harris has been an integral part of the London-headquartered agency since 2019, representing high-profile clients such as Simon Cowell. Her departure from YMU in spring 2025 marks the end of an era, but also signals the beginning of a new chapter in her career.
During her time at YMU, Harris led the literary division to great success by publishing bestselling books from a diverse range of personalities including singer Paloma Faith, comedian Matt Lucas, and Olympic diver Tom Daley. She also represented ‘Menopausing’ by Davina McCall, which received critical acclaim and was named Book of the Year at the 2023 British Book Awards. Harris’s impact on the literary world is undeniable, and her departure leaves big shoes to fill at YMU Literary.
A Stellar Career
Before joining YMU, Harris honed her skills at prestigious publishing houses such as Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, and Hachette. Her work at Orion, where she founded two successful imprints, is particularly noteworthy. Harris’s eye for talent and dedication to nurturing authors has earned her multiple nominations for Literary Agent of the Year. Her impressive track record speaks volumes about her expertise in the industry.
Industry Trends
Harris’s departure comes at a time of change within the entertainment agency landscape, with former YMU executives branching out to start their own ventures. Holly Bott, former Global Managing Director for Entertainment at YMU, recently launched her own agency, Little Arrow, following her departure from the company last year. These moves highlight the dynamic nature of the industry and the entrepreneurial spirit of its leaders.
As Amanda Harris transitions into the next phase of her career, the future of YMU Literary remains uncertain. The agency will undoubtedly feel the impact of her departure, but it also presents an opportunity for new leadership to take the reins and steer the division towards continued success. Harris’s legacy at YMU will endure, as her influence on the literary world is undeniable and her contribution to the agency’s growth is immeasurable.
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