InterVarsity Press has named Greg Jao as its new president and publisher, succeeding Terumi Echols, who will retire on October 1. Jao will oversee editorial, marketing, sales, and operations for all six IVP imprints, including IVP Academic and IVP Kids.

Background on InterVarsity Press

Established in 1947 as a part of the larger InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, InterVarsity Press has evolved over the decades into a prominent player in Christian publishing. Its catalog includes a diverse range of titles that speak to theological, academic, and practical needs within the Christian community. The press is known for its commitment to fostering discussions that align with a wide spectrum of evangelical thought. Its history is rich with contributions from influential theologians and authors, making it a critical resource not just for individuals looking to deepen their faith, but also for scholars and educators interested in integrating these insights into their work.

Leadership Transition

Tom Lin, president of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA, commended Jao, stating, “Greg embodies the impact of IVP, in his character, life, and spiritual leadership.” This assessment reflects not just Jao’s personal characteristics but also hints at a strategic strengthening of the organization’s vision going forward. Echols has successfully led IVP through various challenges and changes in the publishing industry, which have often been marked by increased digital competition and changing reader preferences. Transitioning leadership in an established organization like IVP carries significance. The new president's approach could very well dictate IVP's direction for years to come.

Jao's Experience and Vision

Lin highlighted Jao's dedication, calling him “a consummate IVP advocate and promoter,” noting Jao's long connection to the press that began during his student days and continued through his early career as an IVP employee and an author. This background places Jao in a unique position to step into the leadership role. Having first-hand experience as a student and as an industry insider, he brings a perspective that merges understanding with strategic execution—qualities that are not easily found. His long tenure at IVP spans three decades, during which he has held various roles, managing communications, partnerships, and diversity initiatives, and overseeing the Urbana student missions conference. A trained lawyer, he has also led efforts for InterVarsity’s religious liberty initiatives and described his enthusiasm for IVP titles that enrich his faith. This legal training could prove beneficial, especially in today's increasingly litigious environment that affects publishing freedom and intellectual property issues.

Voices of Support

Echols expressed confidence in Jao’s leadership, stating, “Serving IVP has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional and ministry life,” and believes the press will thrive under Jao’s guidance. Such endorsements are crucial, particularly in a transitional phase, where clear leadership can either make or break an organization's momentum. The community’s sentiment towards Jao could reflect its readiness to support new initiatives and directions he might introduce. Engaging the staff at IVP and supportive authors would be essential in navigating this transition effectively.

Implications for the Future

The appointment of Greg Jao signals not just a change in leadership but also implies potential shifts in IVP's editorial direction and marketing strategy. Under his guidance, we might see more titles that resonate with a younger demographic or that tackle contemporary issues within the Christian community. As a trained lawyer and someone deeply embedded in the mission of InterVarsity, Jao’s presidency could focus on creating a dialogue around faith in a way that is relevant to modern readers. This is especially pressing considering how many in the younger generations are seeking to reconcile traditional beliefs with contemporary societal movements.

If you're working in this space, pay attention to how these developments unfold. The choices Jao makes regarding editorial direction, partnerships, and digital presence will likely influence the long-term viability of IVP in a rapidly changing publishing environment. While Echols leaves behind a significant legacy, the real test will be whether Jao can adapt and expand that legacy while staying true to the core values that IVP has championed for decades.