Writer Laura Rock Gaughan has been named executive director of the Literary Press Group, the association of Canadian literary book publishers announced on Sept. 9.

Gaughan has worked extensively with non-profit organizations as senior associate at Laridae, a management consulting firm for Canadian non-profits. Gaughan is also the author of the 2018 short-story collection Motherish (Turnstone Press).

In a statement, Gaughan was enthusiastic about supporting Canadian publishers. “They produce incredible books and sustain Canadian literary culture,” she said.

The announcement was made by Hazel Millar, chair of the LPG. Gaughan begins her role Sept. 16. She succeeds Christen Thomas, who served in the role for five years before beginning a new role as director of operations for Lancaster House Publishing in July.