Merrilee Warholak began her career as the Publicity Director for a book publisher in the Danbury, CT area. While completing her English degree at Western CT State University, she interned with Benay Enterprises, where she built a solid foundation in business and publishing.
Over the years, Merrilee significantly contributed to Benay’s growth in her first role as Director of Client Relations. Her work includes expanding the company by integrating new partners, preparing royalty reports for publishing clients, negotiating author/publisher contracts, and managing foreign translation rights for numerous New York Times bestsellers.
In addition to her role at Benay, Merrilee played a key part in the company’s foray into publishing as Editorial Director at For Beginners LLC (formerly Writers and Readers Publishing). Here, she channeled her passion for literature into overseeing the publishing process from contract through to publication.
Merrilee moved to Gorham, Maine, with her husband, son, dog, and 7 chickens. As the Chief Operating Officer, she now leads Benay’s Portland branch and continues to drive the company’s success.
In her spare time, Merrilee enjoys volunteering, hiking, swimming, and skiing, and embracing all the outdoor beauty that Maine has to offer.
