We’ve launched a new series called “Random Staff Interrogation” in which you’ll get the low-down on who’s who in our offices. Stay tuned every Tuesday and Thursday for a new introduction, and some surprising answers!
Today I’d like to introduce you to Paul Dotey, who is a Typesetting and Design Associate. Here’s how he handled my interrogation:
1. In one sentence, how would you describe your job?
Book Designer and typesetter.
2. How long have you worked at Random House, and how did you get into publishing?
2.5 years. Planning on taking a computer night-school class at Centennial College, saw the ‘Book and Magazine Publishing’ diploma in the catalogue, and decided to make that my career.
3. What does your typical workday look like?
Converting hardcover files to paperback files, designing covers for new books, and typesetting books that have been designed by myself or by others.
4. What do you like best about your job?
Applying creativity to challenges: timelines, budgets, opposition…
5. What was your very first job?
‘Gold Picture Frame’ shop in Scarborough; cleaning, vacuuming, and cutting panels of 5×7 glass on Saturday afternoons. What fresh hell was that?
6. If you could do any other job (in or out of publishing) what would it be?
Archaeologist.
7. Which genre do you read the most?
Literary fiction, humor
8. What was your favourite childhood book or author?
Henry the Explorer by Mark Taylor (getting a little misty now…)
9. What are you reading right now?
At Home – Bill Bryson
10. Which author would cause you to jump up and down with excitement upon finally getting to meet them?
Michael Cunningham, or Oscar Wilde
Want to be introduced to other great employees? Be sure to check out these additional Random Staff Interrogations