World Book Day’s first chief executive Cassie Chadderton to step down

World Book Day’s first chief executive Cassie Chadderton is set to step down this month, after more than five years in the role.

Before Chadderton joined WBD, she was head of UK Theatre – the major professional association for theatre and the performing arts – and director of media and stakeholder relations at Arts Council England.

Prior to that, she held publicity roles at publishing companies including 4th Estate and Random House and led campaigns for a range of fiction, non-fiction and celebrity authors.

Chadderton said: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to lead World Book Day over the past five years. I’m proud to have worked alongside so many talented, committed individuals, both within the team and across the sector, and to leave the charity in a stronger position for the future.”

World Book Day’s Trustees said: “Cassie has been dedicated in her efforts to raise the profile and influence of World Book Day. She introduced a comprehensive strategy, won new partnerships, expanded our reach into communities across the UK and Ireland, and professionalised the charity’s operations. We wish Cassie every success for the future.”