The Reading Agency announces new Chair

PAUL KELLY global CEO of DK, has been appointed Chair of The Reading Agency, having been a board member since 2018 and serving as Vice-Chair since last year. 

He succeeds MATTHEW LITTLEFORD MBE who held the role since 2018.

As CEO of DK, the world’s leading illustrated non-fiction publisher, Kelly has a breadth of experience in UK and international publishing. His previous roles include President at DK US and Commercial and Strategy Director for Penguin Random House UK. 

Kelly said of his new role: “I have always been inspired by The Reading Agency’s innovative approach to promoting reading for pleasure and the incredible impact they have on so many lives. This brilliant organisation has gone from strength to strength under Matthew’s tenure, reaching over 2 million people last year, and encouraging 139,000 children and families to join the local library. I am humbled and honored to be taking over the vital role of Chair for The Reading Agency."

Littleford, who stood down as Chair on 1 February, provided invaluable leadership and guidance at The Reading Agency. Some of the many key achievements under his chairmanship include expanding the reach of reading programmes to vulnerable and underserved communities across the country, launching innovative digital reading initiatives to support early years reading and supporting the organisation to forge new relationships to support literacy programs across the UK.

Littleford said: “After six inspiring years, I would like to say thank you to The Reading Agency team, our brilliant library partners, and Arts Council England, for working with us to get more people across the UK reading… I wish Paul Kelly every success as the organisation’s new Chair and will continue to champion The Reading Agency’s work from the sidelines.”