Sagan, who will report to Playboy CEO Scott Flanders, will replace Howard Shapiro, who will serve in a new role as special counsel to the company.
Sagan, previously general counsel at Freedom Communications, owner of the Orange County Register, will start March 28 at Playboy's Los Angeles offices.
"We are pleased to have Rachel join our senior management team as we continue transforming Playboy to a brand management company," Flanders said. "In addition to her experience in the media industry, Rachel has played a key leadership role in Freedom's recent restructuring efforts.
"She has both the strategic skills and management expertise needed to help us through this critical juncture."