A major shift is underway in Norway's publishing landscape. Kagge Forlag, the nation's largest non-fiction publisher, is undergoing a significant leadership transition. This move coincides with the closure of the J.M. Stenersens Forlag (JMS) imprint, which Kagge has owned and operated since 2003. An imprint is a specialized brand used for specific types of publications within a larger publishing house.
Cathrine Sandnes, who has led JMS since 2019, will depart at the turn of the year. She will assume the role of Secretary General at the Norwegian Non-Fiction Writers and Translators Association (NFFO). Her successor is Sarah Sørheim, a veteran media executive. Sørheim most recently led the niche department at Schibsted and recently accepted a severance package from that role.
Sørheim's career spans major Norwegian media institutions. She previously served as news editor at the Norwegian News Agency (NTB) and culture editor at Aftenposten. Her experience also includes roles as culture editor at Klassekampen, editorial manager at Dagens Næringsliv, and various positions at NRK, Morgenbladet, and Dagbladet. Five years ago, she co-founded the popular podcast Aftenpodden, and Kagge Forlag confirms she will continue her involvement there.
The closure of the JMS imprint marks the end of a distinct publishing line. This consolidation reflects broader trends in the global publishing industry, where larger houses streamline operations. For Kagge, focusing resources on its core brand may strengthen its market position. The move could signal a strategic pivot towards digital content and podcasts, areas where Sørheim has direct experience.
Kagge Forlag itself has a notable history. Founded in 1996 by lawyer and adventurer Erling Kagge under the name Familievennen forlag, the company will celebrate its 30th anniversary in a few years. Three years ago, Erling Kagge sold 70 percent of the company's shares to the Danish publisher Politiken Forlag. He retained a 30 percent stake, maintaining a connection to the firm he started.
The company's financial performance shows strong growth. Kagge increased its revenue from 125 million Norwegian kroner to 153.5 million kroner in the last fiscal year. This represents a 23 percent increase. The publisher also reported an 18 percent revenue growth for the first half of the current year compared to the same period last year. These figures indicate a healthy business, making the leadership change a proactive rather than reactive move.
This transition at a top Norwegian publisher matters beyond the literary world. It reflects the ongoing digital transformation of media. As readership habits change, publishers must adapt. Bringing in a leader with a background in news, culture, and podcasting is a clear statement of direction. The success of this strategy will be closely watched by the entire Nordic publishing sector. The real test for Sørheim will be balancing Kagge's respected non-fiction tradition with the demands of a rapidly evolving digital media market.