Industry group Digital Nova Scotia has a new CEO: software-as-a-service veteran Owen Sagness.

With a background at Microsoft, where he eventually became the U.K. managing director for advertising and online, Sagness most recently founded consulting firm Cypian, which works specifically with startups. He has also served as interim CEO at several early-stage companies.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Digital Nova Scotia team,” said Sagness in a statement. “DNS is committed to supporting the growth of Nova Scotia’s digital economy, a cause I’m deeply passionate about.

“I’m looking forward to applying my skills and expertise to further enhance the outstanding work already being done to support our province’s ICT sector.”

Sagness replaces Wayne Sumarah, a former telecom exec and civil servant who retired in April.

“With Owen’s extensive leadership experience and his notable contributions to the technology industry, we have full confidence that he is the right leader to steer our organization toward a prosperous digital future,” said board chair Jenn Priske.

“His wealth of industry knowledge promises to open new avenues for growth and success at DNS, and we’re excited for what lies ahead."