ORANGE, Calif., Jan. 2, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Yates & Yates, a leading literary agency serving as creative counsel for top-tier Christian authors, artists, and creative organizations, announces that Esther Fleece has joined the firm as Literary Agent and Vice President of Marketing.

Esther Fleece, most recently a senior leader at Focus on the Family, has been widely recognized as a standout in the Christian world. In 2012, she was chosen by CNN as among the five women in religion to watch and was named by Christianity Today as one of the top 50 women shaping the Church and culture. In addition to this esteemed reputation, Fleece brings to the firm unquestioned expertise on the millennial generation, an expansive network in the Christian world, and significant experience in marketing, public relations, and social media. In addition to serving as an agent, her duties will include improving communication and marketing for Yates & Yates clients as well as for the firm itself.

"Hiring Esther Fleece, an influencer and connector of people, will add a dynamic dimension to Yates & Yates," said Founding Partner Sealy Yates.  "Not only does she bring a sophisticated marketing savvy that will benefit our existing clients and publishing partners, Esther also adds a fresh millennial perspective that will help our clients to stay relevant to an emerging generation that will soon dominate the consumer market.  We're excited to once again add a female to our management team. Additionally, her significant relationships within professional sports will be instrumental in the development of our new division focusing on Christian athlete representation, headed by Matt Yates."

"Yates & Yates is built on 40+ years of relationships within the Christian publishing industry and serves an impressive caliber of communicators and authors. Their long-standing client relationships speak to the integrity of the firm. I'm excited to learn from some of the best in the business, and to help their clients reach their maximum potential," Fleece said.

The addition of Fleece follows what Yates terms the "best year ever" for the firm, with 2012 revenues up 23% over 2011. Notable clients include Beth Moore, John Maxwell, Chuck Swindoll, John & Stasi Eldredge, David Jeremiah, David Platt, John Ortberg, former US Senator Jim DeMint, Cloud & Townsend, and Mark Driscoll. Yates & Yates' author clients have sold over 100 million books collectively during their careers.

About Yates & Yates:

Yates & Yates is a literary agency and law firm that provides the highest level of experience and expertise for Christian creatives.  Established in 1969, Yates & Yates' holistic approach combines agency representation, expert legal advice, marketing guidance, career coaching, creative counseling, and business management consulting.  Yates & Yates helps clients focus their efforts, hone and sharpen their message, obtain broad distribution, increase their influence, and build lasting and successful careers. 

SOURCE Yates & Yates