Nelson Newsroom » Hiring Announcements

LAURA MINCHEW NAMED SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF SPECIALTY PUBLISHING

Casey Francis — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:06:49 +0000

(Nashville, Tenn.)- This week, Thomas Nelson, Inc. announced the promotion of Laura Minchew to Senior Vice President of Specialty Publishing.

Minchew served as publisher of the Children’s Book and Education division, where she held a very successful record for growth and innovation. In 2009, Thomas Nelson’s Gift division was absorbed within her role and in 2010 she was asked to lead the Family Entertainment division.

Minchew and her team have consistently led the Company with the highest returns on invested capital, efficiently using its resources to obtain these results. Her team’s strong performance continues with the current #2 NY Times bestseller “Heaven Is For Real for Kids” and PubTrack’s consistently top five Christian seller “Jesus Calling”.

“Laura has demonstrated leadership by building a top notch team, creating outstanding product, and delivering superior results,” stated Tod Shuttleworth, Senior Vice President and Group Publisher for Global & Specialty Publishing. “Laura’s hard work and dedication have made the Specialty publishing division a very successful entity for Thomas Nelson.”

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Thomas Nelson, Inc. is the world’s largest Christian publisher. Live Event Management, Inc., a Thomas Nelson company, is the nation’s leading producer of Christian live events. The Company provides multiple forms of “inspirational” content including: Bibles, books, eBooks, journals, audio, video, curriculum and digital applications for “smart” electronic devices, with distribution of its products in more than 100 countries. Thomas Nelson is headquartered in Nashville, TN. For additional information, please visit www.thomasnelson.com.

Thomas Nelson Live Events Welcomes New Vice President of Marketing

Casey Francis — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:07:09 +0000

September 22, 2011- Plano, Texas- Thomas Nelson Live Events, the number one producer of live events in the Christian market, announced today the addition of Patrick Koors as its new Vice President of Marketing. Koors joins the Live Events division of Thomas Nelson, Inc. in the Company’s effort to strategically expand its marketing outreach and drive awareness of our events to a larger audience.

“We are thrilled to have Patrick join our team!” said Sally Hofmann, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Thomas Nelson Live Events. “Patrick brings to Thomas Nelson Live Events a very successful track record and in-depth knowledge of the live events industry, working with companies such as The Walt Disney Company, AEG and Feld Entertainment. He brings great past experience in implementing publicity promotions for nationally-recognized events―such as the Ringling Brothers Circus, Disney Live, Amgen Tour of California (the largest cycling tour in America). The creative vision and forward thinking that Patrick brings to Live Events makes him a perfect fit for our team.”

Koors joins the Thomas Nelson Live Events team at the perfect time to introduce objectives that create a greater value for the guests at Women of Faith events. Historically, Thomas Nelson Live Events has primarily focused on Women of Faith two-day arena events. In 2012, we will introduce a new concept: in addition to our arena events, a one-day event featuring renowned speakers such as Christine Caine, Angie Smith, and Sheila Walsh.

“Women of Faith is a vibrant movement that helps women deal with life’s challenges,” continues Hofmann. “We offer women an escape from their day to day lives with captivating speakers, relatable dramas and uplifting music that will help them find courage, inspiration and fulfillment. With the addition of Patrick Koors, Live Events will be able to fine-tune its market expansion strategy and influence even more individuals with the message of having an authentic life changing encounter with God and one another”.

For more information about speakers, guests, and tour dates, please visit www.womenoffaith.com

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Thomas Nelson Live Events, a division of Thomas Nelson, Inc. is the number one producer of live events in the Christian market, nationwide. Live Events is host to Women of Faith events and The Revolve Tour. To date, Thomas Nelson Live Events has inspired over four and a half million women with its message of hope and God’s love. Based in Plano, Texas, the Live Events division of Thomas Nelson travels to numerous cities across the United States, encouraging women to grow in faith and spirituality. For more information on these events, or to find an event listing, please visit www.womenoffaith.com. Thomas Nelson, Inc. continues to inspire the world as the largest Christian publisher with products in more than 100 different countries worldwide.

Thomas Nelson, Inc. Announces New Executive Vice President and Managing Director for Live Events

Casey Francis — Fri, 05 Aug 2011 21:10:22 +0000

(Nashville, TN) August 5, 2011- Thomas Nelson, Inc., the world’s largest Christian publisher, announced this week that Carol Nygren will assume the role of Executive Vice President and Managing Director of the Thomas Nelson Live Events business in Plano, Texas. Nygren will assume the top executive role within Live Events, overseeing the entire business division for the Company. Under Nygren’s leadership, the Live Events division, which includes the Women of Faith and Revolve tours, will look to extend its reach within the market.

Nygren brings Thomas Nelson more than 15 years of prior experience working for The Walt Disney Company, most recently as the Senior Vice President of Licensed Live Family Entertainment, Disney Theatrical Group (DTG). During her tenure, Nygren was responsible for developing “Disney on Ice” and “Disney Live” into globally recognized brands.

“I am thrilled to join the Thomas Nelson family!” stated Nygren. “I am proud to bring my experience to an organization so rich in history and legacy.” Focusing on Thomas Nelson’s company mission, to inspire the world, Nygren intends to, “grow the overall Live Events division by providing incredible event experiences to expanded audiences throughout the United States and eventually, around the world.” She continues, “Through new innovations and creative development, we want to continue to encourage women of all ages to grow in faith and spiritual maturity. I will be working alongside best-in-class talent, both on our platforms and behind the scenes, who are joined through the common bond of sharing a life-changing message.”

“Carol brings Thomas Nelson a proven record in leadership, along with a valuable understanding of the live events industry,” states Thomas Nelson’s President and CEO, Mark Schoenwald. “Carol is the perfect fit for our Live Events division and we welcome her to Thomas Nelson.”

Thomas Nelson is a leading provider of Christian content including Bibles, books, and live events emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes. For more information, visit our website www.thomasnelson.com.

Contact: Casey Francis

Director of Corporate Communication

tel: (615) 902-1109

email: cfrancis@thomasnelson.com

web: www.thomasnelson.com

Thomas Nelson, Inc. Welcomes New Director of Corporate Communications

Casey Francis — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 21:22:36 +0000

(Nashville, TN) August 3, 2011- This week, Thomas Nelson Publishers, the world’s largest Christian and inspirational publisher, welcomed Casey Francis as its Director of Corporate Communications. Within this role, Francis will oversee all corporate communications, working to enhance and maintain the public image of the Thomas Nelson brand. She will develop public relations and communication strategies to emphasize the Company’s overall mission, to inspire the world.

“I am thrilled for this opportunity!” Francis stated. “To become part of an amazing organization, with such astounding core values is a remarkable gift. I am honored to be a part of the Thomas Nelson team and working alongside so many talented individuals who fuse this Company together.”

Francis comes to Thomas Nelson from Commonwealth Brands, Inc. where she was the Public Relations and Communications Officer, responsible for Corporate and Government Relations. She established the Company’s internal and external communications, including: all media relations, creating and editing the Company magazine, oversight of the State legislative engagement and initiating and maintaining relationships with federal officials and Members of the United States Congress. During her tenure at Commonwealth Brands, Casey also served on the Company’s Political Action Committee and managed the Company’s corporate website.

“I look forward to my future with Thomas Nelson and the direction that this Company is headed,” Francis continued. “It is a refreshing thought that Thomas Nelson has accomplished so much in publishing and live events industry, yet, the growth potential seems limitless.”

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Schoenwald Promotes Hofmann and Knight

Lindsey Nobles — Tue, 31 May 2011 18:59:00 +0000

(Nashville, Tenn.) Thomas Nelson, Inc. announced today that Mark Schoenwald has promoted Sally Hofmann and Tom Knight. Hofmann will move to Plano, Texas, to join the live events leadership team as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Knight will oversee sales for all of the company’s publishing units as Senior Vice President of Sales.

Hofmann has 17 years of experience in sales management. She joined Nelson in 2005 and has served most recently as Senior Vice President of General Market and International Sales where she led the division to unprecedented sales growth.

“We are very committed to growing our live events business,” said President and CEO of Thomas Nelson, Mark Schoenwald. “Sally is a results oriented leader with a proven track record. She will be a wonderful addition to the entire live events leadership team.”

Knight brings nearly 30 years of experience in both the publishing and music industries. He joined Nelson in 2007 as Vice President of Independent Retail and has led the entire Christian Retail and Ministry sales divisions for the last year and a half.

“Throughout his career, Tom has demonstrated the ability to develop strong teams and build alignment around strategic plans,” continued Schoenwald. “With his hands-on management, he will rally, support and augment each of our publishing sales divisions.”

“Sally and Tom are two of the best sales leaders that I know,” concluded Schoenwald. “I am excited to see how each of them will flourish in their new roles.”

Nelson Hires Veteran Digital and Online Media Strategist

Lindsey Nobles — Tue, 31 May 2011 18:50:41 +0000

Shanfelt To Become Company’s Senior Vice President of eMedia

(Nashville, Tenn.) Thomas Nelson, Inc. announced today that Eric Shanfelt is joining the team as the Senior Vice President of eMedia on July 1. In this newly created role, Shanfelt will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive digital strategy that integrates the company’s publishing and live events businesses.

Shanfelt has over 20 years of experience in digital and online media, serving in executive roles with Penton Media, Virgo Publishing and Interweave. Most recently he has consulted with numerous business-to-business and consumer media companies as they transition to digital and online media. Shanfelt’s strengths include creating practical strategies for growing online revenues, developing market-leading digital products, and helping companies adapt their culture from print-centric to multi-channel.

“The digital revolution is upon us. Nelson has been recognized as one of the early adopters, quickly embracing new technologies, distribution channels and formats,” said Mark Schoenwald, president and CEO of Thomas Nelson. “But there is more work to be done and we need someone focused on casting the vision and leading the charge. Eric is the perfect person for the job.”

“I am honored to join the incredible team at Thomas Nelson,” said Shanfelt. “I have known of the company’s sterling reputation and been a customer of its excellent products for a long time. But I have been even more impressed by the quality and passion of the people I have met at Thomas Nelson. I look forward to working alongside them as we extend the company’s mission and business goals through digital media.”

Shanfelt completed undergraduate study at Texas Wesleyan University and has a Masters degree from the University of Northern Colorado. He is a private pilot, musician and passionate advocate for adoption and orphan care. He and his wife, Kristi, have a three-year-old daughter, Brooke, and are expecting their second child this fall.

Thomas Nelson Gift and Children’s Division Hires New Team Members

Julie Solomon — Thu, 26 May 2011 15:42:41 +0000

(Nashville, Tenn.) Thomas Nelson Gift and Childrens Division announced today the hiring and promotion of four team members. The new hires will take on their roles in the editorial and marketing departments effective immediately.

Jennifer Barrow joins the team as Editor, Children and Gift Books. Barrow previously worked as a freelance editor under the business name Now Edit This. From 2000 to 2006, Barrow worked for Multnomah Publishers in Sisters, Oregon. A talented professional, Jennifer has worked with multiple bestselling authors including Francis Chan, John Piper and Bruce Wilkinson.

Micah Walker has been promoted from Administrative Assistant to Assistant Editor. Walker graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in English from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, where she served as poetry editor for the Belmont Literary Journal. As an Assistant Editor, Walker will be working on a variety of projects with a primary focus on middle-grade fiction.

Jessica Ward has been hired as Administrative Assistant. Ward graduated from Texas A&M University with a B.A. in English and a Business minor. She has previously worked at Thomas Nelson in the role of Corporate Communications Intern.

Kristen Baird will take on the role of Marketing Coordinator for the Specialty Division. Baird is a recent graduate of Belmont University with her Bachelors in Business Administration. Baird has been an intern at Thomas Nelson for 18 months, serving the Specialty marketing division.

“Jennifer, Micah, Jessica and Kristen are tremendous assets to an amazing team,” says Laura Minchew, Children and Gift Books Publisher. “Our Gift books and Children’s books are in great hands!”

For more information, contact Julie Solomon at jsolomon@thomasnelson.com.

LEEERIC FESKO JOINS LUCADO TEAM

Lindsey Nobles — Mon, 23 May 2011 14:00:05 +0000

(Nashville, Tenn.) Thomas Nelson, Inc. announced today that LeeEric Fesko is joining the Nelson team as the Lucado Trade Marketing Director. In this role, Fesko will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of marketing, promotion, and publicity for all Max Lucado trade titles.

With over 10 years of sales, marketing, and web development experience with some of the most popular Christian brands, Fesko began his career at Word Entertainment in 1999. For the last five years, he has worked as the Director of Web Development at Big Idea Entertainment in Franklin, Tennessee, where he has been responsible for the development and execution of web initiatives for VeggieTales® and 3-2-1 Penguins® brands. Also, he has directed the company’s online store and maximized the brand’s reach through promotions and online positioning.

“LeeEric brings a wealth of experience, energy, and a fresh perspective to the Lucado marketing team,” said David Moberg, Senior Vice President and Nonfiction Group Publisher. “He joins an energetic and savvy marketing team including 20-year publishing veteran Susan Ligon and marketing specialist Liz Johnson. Thomas Nelson remains committed to hiring the top marketers and publicists in the industry to continue the tradition of excellence for which the Lucado brand is known.”

Fesko was born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He graduated from Georgia State University with a B.A. in Music Industry and Entertainment Marketing and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Masters in Music Theory and Education. He and his wife, Tracy, live in Franklin, with their sons Jack and Logan.

“Joining Thomas Nelson not only gives me the opportunity of joining the most respected name in publishing, but it also affords me the privilege of working with arguably the most influential author of this generation,” said Fesko.

Thomas Nelson Fiction Announces Additions, Promotions

Katie Bond — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:31:54 +0000

Nashville, TN – Thomas Nelson Fiction continues to experience dramatic revenue growth, year over year, since its launch six years ago, and continues to receive major industry recognition, such as ECPA data naming Thomas Nelson the #1 Christian Fiction publisher at Christian retail for 2009.

“This exponential growth is the result of many key factors, including the strength of our unparalleled and growing marketing team,” said Allen Arnold, Senior VP and Publisher, Thomas Nelson Fiction. Eric Mullett has been named the new Marketing Director, and Heather Cadenhead named Publicity Coordinator. Mullett began his career at the Christian division of Warner Bros. Records, worked with start-up companies like musicforce.com, launched Nashville WinePress magazine, and most recently lead the marketing of the Gift Book division at Thomas Nelson where he was honored with the company’s prestigious Star Award. Cadenhead is a recent graduate of Union University, founded and promotes The Basilica Review, an online Christian literary journal, and will soon release her first collection of poetry.

Mullett and Cadenhead join Ashley Schneider, Marketing Specialist, and Katie Bond, a literary publicity veteran (formerly of Peachtree Publishers and WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group) who has been promoted to Publicity Manager after three years with this team. According to Arnold, “We’re thrilled to announce the addition of Eric and Heather, and Katie’s well-deserved promotion. There’s simply no better fiction marketing team in Christian or general fiction than this group of professionals. They blend strategic thinking, creativity, and big ideas in a way that constantly amazes me and produces tangible, high-impact results.”

James F. couch to Oversee Thomas Nelson’s Reference & Curriculum Products

Brenda Smotherman — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 23:28:54 +0000

(Nashville, Tenn.) Thomas Nelson Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of James F. Couch, Jr. to Vice President of Reference, Curriculum, and Translation Development for the company’s Bible Group. Couch, who has been overseeing the development of The Voice™—the publisher’s new Bible translation, will now also lend his talents to the creation of Thomas Nelson’s reference and curriculum products.

“Frank has a long history of working with Bible-related projects and we’re excited to be able to broaden the scope of his involvement in the creation of our life-changing products,” notes Gary Davidson, Senior Vice President and Publisher of Thomas Nelson’s Bible Group. “His experiences lend a wealth of knowledge to his role in continuing the Thomas Nelson legacy of bringing the Bible and inspiration to the masses.”

“Bible study materials and reference titles help people to dig deeper into the message of the Bible,” says Couch. “As a person in ministry, I’m honored to be able to play a larger role at Thomas Nelson in the development of tools that help people engage with Scripture.”

Frank Couch has spent his entire adult life either teaching the Bible in ministry settings or publishing Bibles and Bible study materials. After 17 years with Thomas Nelson, he went to Emmaus Bible College as Executive Vice President and later directed the publishing program of Serendipity House Publishers. He has now been back with Thomas Nelson for seven years where he has primarily focused on the development of The Voice™ Bible translation that celebrates the narrative of Scripture while bringing out the unique voices of each of the Biblical characters. Couch has been actively preaching in his church for three decades and has enjoyed developing reference systems, writing numerous study guides, and serving as Chairman of the Development Foundation for Small Group Ministries.