Christianweek Names New Publisher

Canada's national Christian newspaper has new management. David Visser, 
operations manager of the Essence Communications Group of Belleville, 
Ontario, is the new publisher of Christianweek. The changes, which received 
final approval from the CW board of directors on February 23, are effective 
March 1.

"Essence is dedicated to furthering the work of Christ through the written 
word," says Visser. "We want to expand the reach of Christianweek, to 
market the newspaper more aggressively and generate more subscriptions."
Known primarily for their success as book publishers, the Essence Group 
comprises a series of print and multimedia companies "working closely 
together to provide a wide array of communication solutions" 
(www.essencegroup.com). Visser intends to keep Christianweek in Winnipeg 
for at least one year, with most staff members staying in their current 
positions.

But significant staffing changes are being introduced immediately. CW 
editor Doug Koop moves into a new role as associate publisher and 
editor-at-large. While he continues to write for the newspaper, he will 
also work more intentionally to raise the profile of CW throughout the 
broader Christian community.

Maxwell Ryan, who held several top editorial positions in a long career 
with the Salvation Army and has served as one of CW's editorial advisors 
for the past four years, becomes editor, assuming responsibility for the 
news and editorial content of the newspaper. Gus Henne, marketing director 
for Essence Publishing, will take on similar responsibilities for CW.

Outgoing publisher Bramwell Ryan, who nursed the operation to financial 
health during his three years at the helm, tendered his resignation last 
November in order to concentrate his attention on his own company (Tundra 
Lights Communications). Formerly a freelance journalist, Ryan also welcomes 
the time he will gain to do more writing of his own.

"The last three years have been a time of tremendous change at 
Christianweek," says Ryan. "Today the newspaper is healthier than ever and 
poised for new growth.  David and his team bring the marketing muscle that 
will ensure an even brighter future for CW."

Released March 1st, 2001.