Sarah Sahagian has been appointed as the new executive director of the Canadian Children’s Book Centre. She will take over the role on September 7.

“Sarah will bring fresh energy, enthusiasm and considerable experience to the ED role at the CCBC. I look forward to working with her,” Zain Velji, president of the CCBC’s board of directors, said in a statement.

Sahagian comes to the role after spending five years as the inaugural executive director of the Speech and Debate Canada Foundation. A published YA author, Sahagian also brings her experience as a writer and podcaster to the role, as well as skills and experience in communication, strategic planning, fundraising and management.

“As a book lover, it is my privilege to work with a team of people who believe Canadian readers should have access to high-quality Canadian young adult and children’s literature,” Sahagian said in a release. “The CCBC has a long and impactful history of encouraging Canadian children to develop a love of reading. I am excited to continue that important work.”