Bobbi Jo (BJ) Heyboer, who has led Baker Publishing Group's academic marketing efforts for the past 14 years, will step down from her role in July. Heyboer, who has worked in religious publishing for 21 years, is leaving to pursue a master of divinity degree from the University of the South School of Theology in Sewanee, Tenn.

Bryan Dyer, who has served as an academic publicist and assistant marketing manager for Baker Academic and Brazos Press, will take over Heyboer's position, effective July 18.

Heyboer played a key role in establishing the Brazos Press division and "in formulating creative methods" for marketing Baker Academic and Brazos Press titles to academic and thoughtful readers, company officials said.

"It has been a joy to connect authors and their books with readers over the last two decades," said Heyboer, senior director of marketing at Baker Publishing Group. "I am thankful to have worked with outstanding colleagues, writers, booksellers and media contacts who have shaped my career and impacted my life."

Executive Vice President of Human Resources Daniel Baker said Heyboer "served with great distinction."

"She will be missed, and we wish her the very best as she pursues a call to vocational ministry," he said.

Jim Kinney, editorial director of Baker Academic and Brazos Press, added: "[Heyboer] played an integral role in shaping our programs to serve our authors and readers well. But Bryan is well-equipped to succeed her. We eagerly anticipate the insight and energy he'll bring in the months and years ahead."

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