16/07/2018
Bible Society appoints David Foster to head Koorong
Bible Society Australia is delighted to announce the appointment of David Foster as General Manager of Koorong, the largest Christian retailer in Australia. David takes over the reins from Rob Bootes, who steps down on 18th July.
David joins the executive team at Bible Society Australia, with responsibility for Koorong as well as for Crossroad Distributors (also owned by Bible Society Australia).
The new General Manager brings with him 18 years of senior retail experience. This includes management of Big W’s books division and his most recent role as CEO of a not-for-profit peak body. He and his family attend St Mark’s Anglican Church in Pennant Hills, Sydney. “David brings well-honed skills, but most importantly, a humble and confident Christian faith,” says Greg Clarke, Group CEO of Bible Society Australia. “I’m delighted that he’s joining our team and look forward to his leadership of our retail services. Koorong serves Australians with an unmatched range of Bibles, Christian books, movies, music and more. It’s an important part of Bible Society’s ministry.”
David Foster says it’s an honour to take up the new position, and to build on the incredible dedication of the Bootes family. “This covers the time prior to Bible Society’s acquisition of Koorong in 2015, and in the years since. I look forward to leading the organisation into its next era.”
In like vein, Greg Clarke is grateful for the legacy left by the Bootes family, and for the leadership of Rob Bootes. “We thank God for Rob’s long service at Koorong and wish him all the best in his next phase of life and ministry.” Koorong operates 15 retail stores across Australia and a large online business. In terms of sales, it’s the second-largest Christian bookselling chain in the world.
Fast facts:
- More than 49% of Koorong’s customers are aged 25 – 44.
- Baptists, Pentecostals and Anglicans are the largest denominational groups that buy Christian resources through Koorong.
- In 1978 there were nine major English Bible translations available at Koorong. Today they sell more than 30 major English translations and a plethora of foreign language translations.
- Koorong operates online as well as in 15 stores across Australia. In August 2015, Koorong was acquired by Bible Society Australia. The company’s proceeds now assist with Bible translation, distribution and engagement, both here in Australia and around the world.
For further information, please contact: Melissa Lipsett Group Chief Operating Officer Bible Society Australia melissa.lipsett@biblesociety.org.au
