Nelson Books is delighted to announce that Wes Jakacki has been appointed as the new Digital Marketing Director for Nelson Books, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, starting February 19th. Wes joins the team with an impressive 11-year tenure at Christianity Today, where exceptional achievements and deep industry knowledge marked his career progression. Starting as a Marketing Coordinator, Wes advanced to the VP of Marketing and Business Operations role, where he spearheaded the digital marketing strategy for Christianity Today magazine, along with other esteemed publications, podcasts, and books.

Before his time at Christianity Today, Wes also contributed his keen marketing insights as a marketing intern and regular contributor for Relevant Magazine. Wes is a dedicated scholar, holding a double major in Marketing and International Business from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, and he has continued to refine his expertise with an MBA completed in the Fall of 2020 at the University of Illinois, specializing in Digital Marketing and Business Analytics.

As the newly appointed Digital Marketing Director, Wes Jakacki will be the driving force behind Nelson Books’ strategic digital marketing initiatives. Wes’ role is pivotal in articulating and implementing campaigns that efficiently and effectively promote our titles across many digital platforms. With a deep understanding of digital marketing dynamics, he will orchestrate integrated marketing campaigns that resonate with our audiences and facilitate book sales.

Wes adds, “Nelson books have shaped my faith since I became a Christian as a teenager, so I count it a privilege to now be able to expand the reach and impact of these life-changing books to others.”

Chris Sigfrids, VP of Marketing at Nelson Books, expressed his enthusiasm about Wes joining the team: “We are honored to have Wes join the Nelson Books family. His reputation proceeds him as an incredibly bright and talented digital marketer, but also compassionate, a servant leader, and deeply committed to helping followers of Jesus go deeper in their faith. His track record of innovative strategy, paired with his heartfelt passion for our mission, promises to usher in a new chapter of growth and influence for our imprint.”

Wes resides in the Western Suburbs of Chicago with his wife Jackie of 15 years and their three young children. He is committed to his family and community and actively participates at Parkview Community Church, where he demonstrates philanthropic spirit by running with Team World Vision.

Contact: Lisa Beech, Lisa.Beech@HarperCollins.com, Director of Publicity, Nelson Books

Hodder Faith, a division of UK’s Hodder & Stoughton, will release The Hodder Bible Commentary, a comprehensive 50-volume Bible commentary series.  Doctrinally sensitive and globally aware, its goal is to encourage a deepened knowledge and understanding of Scripture.

Accessible and insightful expository commentary explores the timeless message of the Bible and applies it to the challenges of today’s world. Written by a range of authors and supported by consultant editors from around the world, it represents a diversity of church and cultural contexts.

With the full text of the NIV Bible interspersed with the commentary for easy reference, this series is ideal for preaching, teaching and personal study. The first four volumes in the series—Acts, Mark, Luke, and Ecclesiastes—will be published by Hodder Faith on July 16, 2024. This will be followed by a second batch of three volumes—Joshua, Matthew, and Psalms 42-89—to be published on November 12, 2024.

ABOUT THE HODDER BIBLE COMMENTARY:

Luke • $26.99 • 9781473695016 • 464 pp. • July 18, 2024

There are many ways to be lost in life, but the most serious is to be lost to God. Luke’s Gospel introduces us to the people who met Jesus, understood his message, and experienced his saving power. David Peterson’s commentary shows us how we might have a better understanding of the significance of Jesus for ourselves, grasp hold of the salvation he offers, and be faithful disciples in our different world contexts today.

David G. Peterson teaches at Cornhill Sydney and Moore College in Sydney, Australia. Formerly Principal of Oak Hill Theological College in London, he is the author of commentaries on Romans (BTCP), Hebrews (Tyndale) and Acts (Pillar), and other books including Engaging with God (a biblical theology of worship).

 

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Mark • $24.99 • 9781473695023 • 336 pp. • July 18, 2024

Mark’s Gospel takes us to the heart of Jesus’s mission, and vividly presents us with the teaching and actions which turned the world upside down.  In this warm-hearted commentary, Chris Moore pays particular attention to Mark’s use of the Old Testament and draws upon a wide range of global and historical Christian writings to show how deeply subversive Jesus is. Mark is a short Gospel, but it is far from simple. It is rich with doctrine and invites his readers to follow the Christ who is none other than the Son of God.

Christopher K W Moore is the Rector of the Benefice of Fownhope (St Mary) with Mordiford, Brockhampton, and Woolhope near Hereford in the UK. He also serves as the Regional Director of Church Society in the South and West of England.

 

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Acts • $26.99 • 9781473694965 • 416 pp. • July 18, 2024

The book of Acts tells the story of God’s unstoppable mission as the good news of the gospel reaches the nations. Acts invites us to become the next generation of witnesses, attesting to the transforming power of the risen Lord. Martin Salter’s commentary shows how we can be confident that wherever we are and whatever we face, the one enthroned in heaven is still at work, through his people, empowered by his Spirit, to transform lives.

Martin Salter is the Lead Pastor of Grace Community Church in Bedford and a trustee of Keswick Ministries. He is the author of Mission in Action: A Biblical Description of Missional Ethics, The Power of Pentecost (an examination of Acts 2), and So Loved: 26 Words that can Change your Life.

 

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Ecclesiastes • $21.99 • 9781529302110 • 208 pp. • July 18, 2024 How can we live well in a world that can feel meaningless? Ecclesiastes invites us to face the hard truth that our lives are very brief and mostly out of our control. But that doesn’t mean God leaves us to despair. In this searching and uplifting commentary, Eric Ortlund helps us see that our earthly lives are gifts from God. This life may be brief and frustrating, but it is good – and deeply worth treasuring.

Eric Ortlund is Lecturer in Old Testament and Biblical Hebrew at Oak Hill Theological College in London. He has written commentaries on Esther and Malachi, and two books on Job: Suffering Wisely and Well: The Grief of Job and the Grace of God (Crossway), and Piercing Leviathan: God’s Defeat of Evil in the Book of Job (NSBT).

 

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Series editor:  Lee Gatiss is the Director of Church Society and a lecturer at Union School of Theology. He is the author/editor of more than 30 books on the Bible, theology, church history, and Anglicanism, including The NIV Proclamation Bible. He is the series editor of both The Hodder Bible Commentary (Hodder Faith) and The Complete Works of John Owen (Crossway).

Contact:  For more information, please contact Kaitlyn Shokes at: Kaitlyn.shokes@hachette.co.uk

“Beyond the Shelves” Report Illuminates Retailer Strength and Growth

San Luis Obispo, CA: Today, The Parable Group released its highly anticipated 2024 State of Christian Retail report, a comprehensive analysis providing invaluable insights into the current climate of the Christian retailing industry. Titled “Beyond the Shelves,” this report draws on robust data from more than 200 U.S. Christian bookstores, representing an impressive $84 million in sales, 2.26 million consumer receipts, and extensive nationwide survey results. Offering invaluable insights, the report serves as a guide for businesses and ministries navigating the evolving landscape.

The key findings of the report are nothing short of inspiring:

• 2023 Christian retail sales witnessed a substantial 8% increase over 2022, with an impressive 79% of stores reporting a surge in sales. This growth is attributed to strategic inventory management, the introduction of new product lines, and adept pricing strategies.
• Notably, same-store sales experienced a remarkable 20% increase over 2019 figures, signaling the industry’s resilience and surpassing pre-pandemic performance levels.
• A January 2024 nationwide survey further solidifies this positive outlook, with 92% of Christian retailers expressing optimism about the future.

Despite the positive report, 2023 posed its share of challenges. Christian Retailers grappled with inventory acquisition hurdles, supply chain disruptions, increased costs, freight concerns, and external influences. However, their exceptional adaptability shines through, with survey results revealing that an impressive 97% of respondents adjusted their retail strategies during the year. Tactics included active social media promotion (74%), adjustments to inventory mix (60%), and increased prices to retain margins (46%). Additionally, over half of retailers employed marketing through catalogs, emails, and websites.

Christian retailers experienced a remarkable revival in community engagement and in-person events, fostering a renewed sense of connection among customers. Recognizing the potency of their distinctive qualities, retailers strategically leveraged their personalities to establish a local edge. This involved creating inspirational atmospheres, delivering personalized services, and assuming the role of trusted advisors.

Greg Squires, President of The Parable Group, conveyed deep admiration for Christian retailers, stating, “Our cherished retail partners consistently inspire us through their agility and unwavering resolve. Motivated by a greater purpose and a genuine love for their mission—these retailers are making a remarkable kingdom impact.”

To access the full report, interested parties can click here. Additionally, a guided tour of the report will be offered through The State of Christian Retail webinar on February 20th at 10 am PST. Registration for the webinar is available here.

The Parable Group, based in San Luis Obispo, CA  is dedicated to empowering Christian retailers, publishers, and ministries in magnifying their mission. As a data-driven marketing agency and media group, The Parable Group specializes in connecting its clients with engaged Christian consumers, pastors, and church leaders. With a rich history of service since 1985, the group has successfully served over 1000 Christian organizations. For more information, contact sally.ross@parablegroup.com or visit www.parablegroup.com.

Contact: Sally Ross, (805) 329-4020, sally.ross@parablegroup.com

Nashville, Tennessee – Feb. 1, 2024 – W Publishing Group, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, is pleased to announce the promotion of Allison Carter to the position of Senior Publicity Director. In her new role, Carter will oversee the publicity efforts for W Publishing Group, a leading provider of inspirational and Christian books.

Throughout her career at W Publishing Group, she has consistently demonstrated a deep knowledge of media relations and positioning for authors and their books. She has also implemented an innovative approach for W Publishing’s book publicity campaigns and has contributed to the success of numerous New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Evangelical Christian Publishing Association, and Publishers Weekly bestselling books including Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table by Louie Giglio, Becoming Free Indeed by Jinger Duggar Vuolo, The God of the Way by Kathie Lee Gifford and Like a River by Granger Smith.

As the Senior Publicity Director, Carter will continue to develop and execute comprehensive publicity campaigns and will collaborate with media outlets to maximize visibility for each title’s release. She will be liaison to the company’s teams of publicists across all imprints and will continue to mentor new talent.

“Allison’s promotion to Senior Publicity Director is a well-deserved recognition of her skills and dedication to our authors and their messages,” said Caren Wolfe, VP of Marketing, W Publishing Group. “She is committed to achieving the highest level of success possible for every campaign, consistently raising the bar when it comes to securing media opportunities for our authors.”

Thomas Nelson is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian content and has been providing readers with quality inspirational product for more than 200 years. As part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the publishing group provides multiple formats of award-winning Bibles, books, gift books, cookbooks, curriculum and digital content, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information visit www.thomasnelson.com.

knk Software, a leading provider of software solutions for publishers and media houses, announces the appointment of Michael Fox as their Vice President of Operations. Reflecting knk’s recent growth and expansion, this newly created position is designed to strengthen the organization’s ability to further enhance its service to clients and to support the team in adapting to the evolving dynamics of the industry. He will play a pivotal role in overseeing the daily operations of knk, leveraging his extensive knowledge of operational management.

Michael brings substantial experience in various leadership roles, having successfully overseen operations and strategic initiatives with renowned publishers, including Wiley, where he held the position of Director of Operations. With a demonstrated history of navigating complex operational challenges, consistently improving client satisfaction, and fostering a culture that encourages both innovation and sustainable growth, his background aligns with the goals of knk.

“I’m honored to join knk and contribute to the company’s mission,” says Michael. “In this new capacity, I’m looking forward to collaborating with the team to drive success in this ever-evolving industry. Together, we’ll navigate the exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.”

Sebastian Mayeres, CEO of knk Software, expressed enthusiasm about Michael joining the team, stating, “Michael is very well-equipped to lead knk Software’s operations into a new era of growth and innovation. As an established industry leader, knk is dedicated to providing the best of service to its clients and ensuring their ongoing success. Michael’s operational expertise will directly benefit our clients by continuing to ensure the delivery of high-quality software solutions and an exceptional customer experience.”

About the knk Group   
The knk Group has 450 customers in the publishing and media industry across North America, Europe and Asia with offices in the US, UK, France and Germany.  knk develops and distributes knkMedia – the only Microsoft-certified software for publishers and media worldwide. It complements the range of services provided by Microsoft Dynamics 365 with publishing-specific functionality for book, magazine, and specialist publishers and is based on the latest Microsoft technology. The software can be used in the cloud as well as on premises. In addition, the knk Group offers Power BI, CRM (knk365 for Media Sales), Customer Engagement (knk365 Market Insights) and Marketing Automation (knk365 Marketing Automation) solutions dedicated to meet the publishing and media industry’s needs.

Press Contact: Cheryl Spais, knk Software LP, 908-206-4599, Cheryl.Spais@knk.com, knkMediaSoftware.com

CHICAGO and LONDON – In its commitment to further refine its shared services model, Independent Publishers Group (IPG) has announced the reorganization of its global management team.

IPG has appointed Tim McCall as its new VP of Sales. Leveraging his extensive experience in both Big 5 and independent publishing, McCall will lead IPG’s US sales team to develop and implement dynamic new sales strategies. McCall will also manage IPG’s Barnes & Noble account. In a recent communication to publishers, IPG’s CEO, Joe Matthews, said, “I am very enthusiastic about bringing an experienced new leader to the business. I hope to see the sales team become more publisher-centric and focused on those customers and special sales that make the most impact for our publishers and the authors they serve.”

In his expanded role as VP of International Trade Sales, Scott Hatfill will lead an initiative to establish domestic UK trade accounts, one of several strategic sales initiatives for 2024. In addition to his sales responsibilities, Hatfill will collaborate with IPG’s business development team to open new international distribution channels and sign new publishers to IPG’s portfolio. IPG’s UK Head of Sales, Michelle Zappa, and the domestic UK sales team will continue to drive academic and professional sales in the UK, Europe, and the rest of the world (excluding the US) through IPG’s Eurospan program.

IPG’s VP of Business Management, Mark Noble, who served as the company’s VP of Operations for over a decade, will oversee the department again as part of an expanded interim role. Clark Matthews has been appointed to oversee IPG’s Chicago warehouse and the Digital Print team while continuing to serve as the VP, GM, Book Manufacturing and Distribution Center Services.

IPG has promoted Brooke O’Donnell to Senior VP of International Business Development, where she will continue to sign publishers to IPG’s Trafalgar Square Publishing and Spanish language programs. IPG has also promoted Sidney Thompson to Business Development Manager, where she will track IPG’s pipeline of new business, draft and review contracts and provide a point of contact for IPG’s publishers.

About Independent Publishers Group:  Founded in 1971, IPG was the first organization specifically created for the purpose of marketing titles from independent presses to the book trade. Today, IPG’s wide reach into the book market includes distribution of both print and e-books from a wide array of publishers, digital printing and traditional publishing. With consistent growth year over year, IPG’s success has come from supporting and encouraging the growth of its publishing partners in the United States and worldwide. IPG was acquired by Chicago Review Press in 1987, and this acquisition formed the parent company Chicago Review Press, Inc., which now owns Chicago-based indie publishers Chicago Review Press and Triumph Books. In 2021, IPG acquired UK-based United Independent Distributors (UID) and its subsidiary companies Eurospan, Marston Book Services and Orca Book Services, extending IPG’s global menu of services.

Contact: Julia Dillman, Corporate Communications, 312.337.0747, jdillman@ipgbook.com

NASHVILLE, Tenn., January 2024 – Zondervan Books, a leading publisher of Christian literature, today announced the addition of Amanda Woods as publicity director. Zondervan Books is the home to multiple award-winning books and bestselling authors including Rick Warren, Shauna Niequist, Craig Groeschel, Lee Strobel and Rebekah Lyons.

Woods joins the company with a plethora of experience in publishing, including the last seven years on the publicity team at Tyndale House Publishers. Woods’ previous publicity campaigns have landed coverage in national outlets including GMA Faith Friday, NBC’s TODAY, and multiple shows on Fox News Channel, to name a few.

“Amanda comes to Zondervan with rich experience in publicity strategy, innovation, leadership and execution,” said Mark Glesne, Vice President, Marketing for Zondervan Books. “We’re absolutely thrilled to have her join our team and our mission to impact the world.”

As publicity director for Zondervan, Woods will use her gift of building strong relationships with  both media representatives and specifically work to effectively broaden media exposure for Zondervan authors and have fun while doing it.

“I’m truly honored and excited to begin this next chapter in my publicity career,” said Woods. “I look forward to linking arms with the team at Zondervan to strategically strengthen our presence in the media space, and ultimately elevate our authors’ voices and stories, pointing a lost world to the truth of who Jesus is. I count it a privilege to use my talents and skills for such important Kingdom work.”

Woods is a 2008 graduate of Illinois State University with a degree in public relations and a minor in psychology. Prior to her publishing career, she gained experience in event planning, community relations, nonprofit fund development, and volunteer recruitment and management.

Zondervan is a HarperCollins Company and part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. Zondervan is a world leading publisher and provider of Christian communications. The company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.

Contact: Zondervan Books, ZBooksPR@HarperCollins.com

Carol Stream, Ill. (January 24, 2024) In April 2024, NavPress will release The Message Student Bible, a new way for young people to understand and enjoy the wisdom and beauty of God’s Word through Eugene Peterson’s beloved translation, The Message.

Generations of Bible readers have discovered that the Bible is written not only to people in the past but also to people in the present. In these pages, readers become insiders to a conversation in which God forms, guides, and ultimately saves human beings. The Message Student Bible invites a new generation into this holy conversation, guiding young men and women into a lifelong love of reading God’s Word.

This Bible will enable students to learn the essential context surrounding every book of the Bible as they engage with Scripture. Eugene Peterson’s understandable and enjoyable translation combines the authority of God’s Word with the energy and cadence of conversational English. New supplemental features will make this a highly useable and engaging resource for contemporary students as they seek to discover the way of Jesus in the pages of the Bible.

Features include

• “Introduction to The Message”
• “What You Need to Know about the Books of the Bible”
• “Well-Known Stories from the Bible”
• Maps

The Message Student Bible releases April 9, 2024.

The Message Student Bible
Softcover: $24.99 | ISBN 978-1-64158-796-9
Hardcover: $34.99 | ISBN 978-1-64158-804-1
April 9, 2024
NavPress.com

NavPress is the book-publishing arm of The Navigators. With a rich catalog of bestselling books, ministry resources, and The Message^® Bibles, NavPress supports readers as they know Christ, make Him known, and help others do the same.^®  Since 2014 NavPress has been in a publishing alliance with Tyndale House Publishers, one of the largest independently owned Christian publishers in the world. NavPress resources are sold, distributed, and marketed worldwide through Tyndale House Publishers.

Contact: Kristen Schumacher, kristenschumacher@tyndale.com, 630.784.5103

Ada, Mich. (January 24, 2024)—Baker Publishing Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Vos to the position of editorial director for Baker Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Vos began his publishing career at Baker Publishing Group in 1999 holding various roles in marketing prior to joining the Baker Books acquisitions team in 2009. Since that time, he has helped grow the Baker Books division through strong acquisitions and editorial work with authors such as Robert Jeffress, Caroline Leaf, Matthew Barrett, and New York Times bestselling author Jon Acuff.

“Brian has proven himself as a talented and insightful editor who excels at helping his authors elevate their work. He’s also a keen strategic thinker with a strong vision for the Baker Books division,” said Jennifer Leep, Executive Vice President of Trade Publishing. “We look forward to seeing the Baker Books team continue to thrive under Brian’s leadership.”

“It’s an honor to step into this new role at Baker Books, a growing imprint with a clear vision for the future,” said Vos. “I’m looking forward to working with exceptional authors and our talented team to share remarkable, life-changing messages with readers around the world.”

Baker Books has a vision for building up the body of Christ through books that are relevant, intelligent, and engaging. We publish titles for lay Christians on topics such as discipleship, apologetics, spirituality, relationships, marriage, parenting, and the intersection of Christianity and culture. We also publish books and ministry resources for pastors and church leaders, concentrating on topics such as preaching, worship, pastoral ministries, counseling, biblical reference, and leadership.

Baker Publishing Group publishes high-quality writings that represent historic Christianity and serve the diverse interests and concerns of evangelical readers.

Contact: Holly Scheevel, (952) 829-2555, hscheevel@bakerpublishinggroup.com