Following the announcement in July that Ian Carmichael would be stepping down as CEO, Matthias Media’s Board Chair, Sandy Grant, has announced the appointment of a new leader for the Australian arm of the publishing ministry. 

“After an extensive and thorough recruitment process, I’m delighted to introduce Gavin Shume as our new Executive Director. Gavin will commence at the end of this month, and brings with him a background and set of skills beyond what we could have imagined God might provide for us”, Mr Grant said.

Mr Shume spent over 17 years working in the Christian book industry as the National Marketing and Buying Manager for Koorong Books. More recently he has worked as the Chief Operating Officer for Open Doors Australia & New Zealand and also commenced his own consultancy business helping Christian charities.

Tony Payne, head of the Board’s recruitment team, admits he was surprised to receive the résumé of a candidate who had so much relevant experience.

“We were hoping to find someone with a strong sales and marketing background, but we certainly didn’t expect someone with nearly two decades of experience in the specific niche of Christian book marketing. Let alone someone who has also been involved in the Christian book publishing process. In his kindness, God has sent us Gavin, who not only ticks all these boxes, but crucially also shares our evangelical convictions and ministry focus”, Mr Payne said.

Mr Shume says that he had numerous friends send him the job advertisement and suggest it had his name all over it.

“It does seem to be a really good fit. I’m looking forward to the challenge and can’t wait to begin. I’m excited and grateful to join the team at Matthias Media and to use whatever gifts God has given me to help him build his church through disciples who make disciples.”