The Foundry Publishing (formerly Nazarene Publishing House Inc.) Board of Directors announced the pending retirement of Mark Brown as the president and CEO of The Foundry Publishing.

Brown will remain in his role until January 2025. At that time, The Foundry Human Resources/Lillenas Music Director Mark Parker will assume the role of interim president until a new president is named.

Bob Brower, The Foundry Board chair, said, "Mark led the publishing house through one of its most difficult times and was a stabilizing force in continuing its ministry. He was the rudder guiding the boat during times of great transition, including changes in technology, the local church, and the publishing industry."

Arriving just seven months after the retirement of long-time president Bud Lunn, Brown would eventually work with four different presidents. Brown was first appointed vice president/CFO in 2000 by Hardy Weathers after serving as the director of operations for many years. In 2014, Brown was appointed CEO and interim president by the Board of General Superintendents. After a revision of the business structure, Articles of Incorporation, and Bylaws in 2019, the Board of Directors elected him president.

Brown's career was faced with many changes and challenges. The publishing world was in great transition. During his time, the functions of graphic arts, printing, warehousing, and distribution were outsourced. The church was changing dramatically and faced 9/11, several economic downturns, and COVID-19. It was a tumultuous time to lead.

Brown placed his stamp on all aspects of the business. His goal was to maintain the ministry of providing holiness literature and music for the church. In 2017, Brown determined that in order to reach outside of the Church of the Nazarene in North America, the trade name would need to be changed. After a great deal of surveying and listening, the name The Foundry Publishing was chosen. Upon its debut, the new name received a resounding welcome by the Church of the Nazarene and others who now looked to it for ministry resources.

"This decision did not come easily after 37 years,” Brown said. “But my feeling is that The Foundry Publishing is at a good place to make a transition to new leadership. The Lord has sustained this ministry for 112 years through many difficult days. All along the way, I felt Jesus leading me. I am at peace about my decision and know that the Lord has plans for a great future at The Foundry Publishing."

Brower affirmed that The Foundry Board is anticipating good days ahead for the ministry.

"The board is pleased that Mark Parker has accepted its invitation to serve as interim president," Brower said. "Mark brings great experience to this leadership role through his long career at NPH/The Foundry. He understands well the opportunities and challenges surrounding The Foundry's mission to provide the Church of the Nazarene with resources to make Christlike disciples. I am grateful for Mark's willingness to lead The Foundry in this important time of transition."

--The Foundry Publishing