Kristal Batanjany was named the Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis for Simon & Schuster in 2024, and was Associate Finance Director since 2019. She is responsible for forecast modeling, evaluating capital expenditures, and performing cost-saving analyses. Prior to entering the publishing industry, Kristal held management positions in the travel and hospitality industry. During her tenure at Simon & Schuster, she has been the business manager of the Gallery and Atria imprints, analyzed major acquisitions, and managed the diligence process for high-profile business changes. Kristal earned her BBA from Seton Hall University and MBA from Fordham University.