Aitken Alexander Associates

Aitken Alexander Associates is a leading literary agency in London. We represent writers from all over the world, selling their work into the UK, the US and international territories, and across all media. We have a highly successful film and TV department with an exceptional ‘book to screen’ record. Three of the directors of Aitken Alexander have a background in publishing, and the whole agency works closely with the authors we represent; we offer editorial advice and specialist knowledge about different publishing markets, as well as expert skills in negotiating terms and handling contracts, supported by an excellent Accounts department to efficiently handle payments.

Led by each author’s agent, we work closely together to formulate individual strategies for every book and author. Our diverse and prestigious client list speaks for itself, and we are proud of our reputation for discovering and nurturing new talent as well as for managing long writing careers.

Gillon Aitken founded his eponymous agency in 1976. Clare Alexander joined in 1998, and the company name was changed in 2005. Clare now leads the company as Chair.  Lesley Thorne joined in 1999 and in 2017 became Managing Director. Lisa Baker joined in 2016 and became a director in 2017. Chris Wellbelove joined in 2017 and became a director in 2018; he is now Head of the Book Department. Emma Paterson joined in 2018 and became a director in 2020.