There’s a new woman at the helm of the territory’s famous sled dog race.

Natalie Haltrich has been named the new Yukon executive director for the Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile International Sled Dog Race.

Haltrich was previously serving as vice-president of the Quest’s Yukon board of directors. She will begin her new role in July.

In addition to her experience on the board, Haltrich also managed the Carmacks checkpoint for the past two years and was a handler for musher Abbie West in the 2013 race.

Haltrich has a strong background in management, including work as program director for a Vancouver-based program dedicated to the development of leadership and social responsibility in youth.

Most recently, Haltrich worked as office manager at Nahanni River Adventures.

“On behalf of the Yukon board of directors, I would like to welcome Natalie as our new executive director,” president Michael Peterson said in a press release.

“We are very grateful that someone with her race knowledge and management background has committed to joining our team. Natalie brings the experience, dedication and enthusiasm that we were looking for.”

Haltrich says being on the board for the past year has given her insight into the Quest’s sponsorship and administrative needs, as well as the many teams and partnerships that need to function in union for the organization to be successful.

“In addition, I take pride in knowing I helped turn the Carmacks checkpoint around, rebuilding a connection between the race and the community,” she said.

“I am no stranger to challenge – in fact, it drives me – and I look forward to the opportunity of building a sustainable Yukon Quest organization for the mushing community and beyond.”

The 33rd annual Yukon Quest begins Feb. 6, 2016 in Fairbanks.