Mark Schoenwald

On July 31, HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) turns one year old. According to Ted Olsen of Christianity Today, a leading voice of the evangelical movement, HCCP controls 50 percent of the Christian publishing market, making it by far the largest player in the segment. Led by President and CEO Mark Schoenwald (above), the first year of HCCP has been a "mission" of sorts, one of uniting the two similar but distinct missionary directives of its constituent parts, Zondervan and Thomas Nelson. As Schoenwald and his team have transformed the organization, their mantra has been "One + One is greater than Two."

Today, HarperCollins has announced that, in the wake of its acquisition of Christian publisher Thomas Nelson, it has formed a new Christian publishing division. The business unit will include both Thomas Nelson, the Nashville-based outfit with roots that date back to 1798 Edinburgh, Scotland, and Zondervan, the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based house that was already in HarperCollins' portfolio.

HarperCollins Publishers today announced Mark Schoenwald has been appointed President and CEO of its new Christian publishing division. This expanded division is comprised of Zondervan and the newly acquired Thomas Nelson. Each will continue to publish its respective brands and maintain its unique editorial focus. Schoenwald will report to Brian Murray, President and CEO of HarperCollins Publishers Worldwide, and will serve on the HarperCollins executive committee. Scott Macdonald will leave his position as President and CEO of Zondervan and will serve in an advisory role.

HarperCollins Publishers today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Thomas Nelson, Inc. for an undisclosed sum. Thomas Nelson is one of the leading trade publishers in the United States. The Company provides multiple forms of inspirational content including: books, Bibles, e-books, journals, audio, video, curriculum and digital applications available for download on “smart” electronic devices.

Thomas Nelson President and Chief Operating Officer Mark Schoenwald has been promoted to president and chief executive officer, the religious publisher announced this week. He will replace current CEO Michael Hyatt, "who is stepping out of active management of the company but will continue to serve as chairman of the board," according to a statement released by Thomas Nelson.