After working in corporate marketing for 12 years at Fisher Scientific Commodore Computers, Locke joined Loyola in 1996. In her new role, Locke will be responsible for moving Loyola "forward into the digital publishing arena."

Locke said Loyola's e-books and iPhone and iPod apps "are a natural evolution" for the company. Currently, Loyola has more than 120 titles available in e-book format and three iPad apps.

Thomas has been responsible for developing artists such as Brandon Heath and Tenth Avenue North, who, respectively, have claimed "New Artist of the Year" and "Song of the Year" honors over the past two Gospel Music Association (GMA) Dove Awards.

In her new role, Thomas will continue to scout, sign and develop new artists as well as work with established artists such as Jars of Clay.

Terry Hemmings, president and CEO of Provident Music Group, said Thomas "has an ear for songs and artists who fit our market." "She's demonstrated incredible consistency in signing artists who resonate with our consumer base," Hemmings said. "I'm proud to have her on the Provident team."

Thomas began her music industry career in 1998 as an administrative assistant with Reunion Records.  She moved into support roles within artist development areas of both Reunion and Essential Records, rising from artist development coordinator to A&R manager to her most recent post of director of A&R.

Thomas serves on the GMA's Immerse planning committee, and has been on the board of The Home Foundation since its inception in 2006.

Beginning his Christian music career in 1971, Drury spent 34 years with Word Entertainment. "I'm thrilled to be working with the Go Fish guys in this new capacity," he said. "I fully believe in their mission of reaching kids for Christ."

Go Fish's Backstage With The Bible: A Vacation Bible School Experience curriculum has been used in more than 1,000 churches in the United States and Canada. Go Fish's newest album, Kickin' It Old School, is slated to be released in August.

Rodriguez, who has more than 20 years of experience in the publishing industry, was associate director at Grupo Nelson--the Spanish division of Thomas Nelson--where he led in the areas of new author acquisitions, marketing and advertising. Tod Suttleworth, vice president of Thomas Nelson, said Rodriguez "played a key role during his last five years with us, where sales increased by a 22% margin."

Editorial Unilit President David Ecklebarger added: "We believe that his gifts and experience will complement our already effective publishing, sales and marketing team. I look forward to working with him."

Before joining NavPress, Lathrop was with Word Distribution, where he served for 11 years. He also has more than 19 years of experience working in and with the Christian retail industry.

Julie Langmade, NavPress director of marketing, said Lathrop's "background in retail sales and his attention to detail will be a great enhancement to our current marketing team."

Jennifer Willingham, previously vice president of publicity, has been promoted to associate publisher. Jonathan Merkh, vice president and publisher, said Willingham "has proven herself a creative and dedicated professional both at Howard and over the past 16 years of her publishing career."

Angie VanTassell has also been hired as director of publicity. Previously vice president of Alday Communications, VanTassell also served as director of marketing for W Publishing Group. Additionally, Libby Reed has been hired as publicity assistant. Ashley Earnhardt, previously marketing associate, has also been promoted to publishing manager.

In the editorial department, Holly Halverson joined Howard Books as senior editor June 7. Halverson was most recently employed by the Hachette Book Group. Additionally, Jessica Wong, previously administrative coordinator, has been promoted to associate editor.

"These promotions reflect the growth mode we're in at Howard Books," said Merkh.

Pettit joined CTAI last September and immediately traveled to Hong Kong to serve at the Marketsquare Asia convention. Since then, Pettit has taken on an increased work load and is now responsible for all of CTAI's major programs.

CTAI President Jim Powell said Pettit deserved "a higher level of responsibility within the organization." "In the time she has been with Christian Trade, she has exhibited passion, commitment, and expertise that commend her to this larger role," said Powell, who will continue to serve as president, but with a reduced portfolio. "

Sylvester Ejeh, CTAI's chairman of board of directors, added that Pettit "has impressed the board with her contribution. We look forward to the positive ways she will influence Christian Trade going forward."