(re)Introducing the IVP Publishing Board: Mark Finnie

 1. Tell us a little bit about yourself – what you do day to day.

My day starts with an early morning walk, listening to David Suchet reading the NIV, usually followed by meetings with leaders of NGOs to explore creative ways to deepen bible engagement and break down barriers to God’s Word. Before joining Biblica I worked in publishing – including a wonderful 10 years at IVP, when authors such as Alec Motyer, Michael Green and John Stott were still alive and writing.

 2. What is something you wished more people knew about you?

Everyone I meet soon discovers I’m mad about open water swimming, kayaking and hiking in the Lakeland fells, where I live.  Those who’ve stayed at our house wished they didn’t know this, especially when they’re forced to join me whatever the weather or temperature.

 3. Tell us about a Christian book (not the Bible) that has been influential upon your faith.

There are so many, including dictionaries, historical and contextual theology and writing on contemporary challenges, such as IVP’s ‘Here are your Gods’ by Chris Wright.

When travelling, I turn to biography. My mum read mission biographies such as ‘I dared to call him Father’ and ‘Through Gates of Splendour’ to me and my sisters on camping trips, and I’ve always loved discovering how God is working amongst the least reached. I’m currently reading ‘The Forbidden Stories’ from Heart4Iran.

 4. What is your role within IVP and why it is important?

The team at IVP are publishing some remarkable books that will influence thinkers and leaders across the globe. Being on the Publishing Board involves me being an advocate for IVP, discussing ideas for new books and helping to highlight emerging writers, all of which is very rewarding.

 5. How are you uniquely equipped to support IVP?

I served as Marketing, Editorial and Publishing Director in several publishing companies, including IVP, and have a strong connection with IVP’s authors, a detailed knowledge of the backlist and a close involvement with publishers, theological colleges and writers across international markets.

 6. What excites you most about IVP’s work / What are your hopes for the future of IVP?

We have an outstanding team at IVP who benefit from being part of a larger publishing group with expertise in all aspects of publishing and digital marketing.