Malveata Collins is the new chief professional officer for the Beaufort County Boys & Girls Club.

As CPO, she oversees the strategic planning, fundraising and operation of the club’s two units. Collins will divide her time between the Washington and Belhaven units.

Collins, 33, had been director of the Washington unit since December, said Walter Lanham, the club’s marketing director, in a telephone interview.

“I feel like I’ve known her forever, and the kids love her,” Lanham said of Collins. “She’s just very good at what she does, dedicated … the perfect fit.”

Collins, a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University with a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering, succeeds Alice Mills-Sadler at the CPO position effective immediately.

The club’s nationwide search for a new CPO began in February when Mills-Sadler announced to the club’s board of trustees that she would retire from her position at the end of April. She served as CPO for two years.

Lanham said Mills-Sadler would stay on for the next three to six months as a mentor to Collins and coordinator of the 21st Century grant program until the position is filled. An advertisement seeking someone to replace Collins in her former position will be published in the Daily News in the coming days.

In a press release issued by the club, Collins said Mills-Sadler left big shoes to fill. Mills-Sadler is credited with using grants like 21st Century’s grant to revamp the nonprofit program and refurbish facilities.

“By God’s grace and with her continued guidance, I believe we will be able to provide the best for the kids of Beaufort County, which is what they absolutely deserve,” Collins said.