The Random House Group has launched a new dedicated unit - Random House Enterprises (RHE) - to pursue multi-platform business opportunities. RHE will look at how content and intellectual property can be used across platforms including TV, licensing and merchandising, gaming and live events.

Jo Edwards, previously VP International Consumer Products at Discovery Communications, has been appointed as RHE's first Head of Licensing and will report into Nigel Waters, The Random House Group's, Group Commercial Director.

In her 11 years at Discovery, Jo developed Discovery's international consumer products business across brand, character and art-led licences and through multiple product categories, leading international business development in sectors including toys, retail, clothing, electronics, live shows and exhibitions. In addition, Chloe Johnson-Hill, previously Publicity Director at Jonathan Cape and Bodley Head, has joined the RHE team on secondment as Manager, Random House Enterprises (Events).

Nigel Waters said: "Together with our authors we are in the privileged position of creating and controlling world class content and it is our duty to look at all possible ways of taking our authors, their works and brands to the widest possible audiences. This will entail diversifying beyond the realms of traditional publishing and we will be actively pursuing new partnerships wherever we can see a mutually beneficial relationship.

"I'm delighted that Jo, with her proven track record of entrepreneurship and delivery, is joining us as our first Head of Licensing. I'm also delighted to welcome Chloe Johnson-Hill to the team. Chloe has built up a tremendous amount of experience in developing relationships with our authors and this is a terrific opportunity for her to use those skills in what is a new and exciting challenge."

Jo Edwards said "I am delighted to be joining Random House and working with my new colleagues as it invests in its development as a broader exploiter of IP rights and content."