Longtime graphic novel executive Rich Johnson has joined Diamond Book Distributors, the book distribution division of Diamond Comic Distributors, as Vice President, Sales and Business Development, the company announced.  In his new role, Johnson, in conjunction with sales and marketing, will manage business development efforts, including evaluating new business opportunities and working to expand DBD’s distribution network.

Johnson has been a key figure in the development of graphic novels as the dominant format for comics, in executive roles at DC Comics (Vice President Book Sales); Yen Press, where he was Co-Founder; and Lion Forge Comics, where he was Vice President, Sales, Marketing & Business Development. Johnson is currently an Adjunct Professor at Pace University in their Masters Publishing Program.

"As a constant advocate and catalyst for graphic novels in the book trade, few have done more than Rich Johnson to introduce the comic arts to American readers of every age," Diamond Book Distributors President Tony Lutkus said in a statement accompanying the announcement.  DBD hired Tony Lutkus from Penguin Random House as its new President last August (see "New President for Diamond Book Distributors").

"I have worked with Diamond in various capacities over the years and I am looking forward to joining this amazing group of book and comic professionals in a more official capacity," Johnson said of his new role.  "I feel like I’m joining long-standing friends on a new adventure."