Christian publisher David C Cook announced two new hires today, welcoming Steve Lavey as chief financial officer and Rick Bowles as executive vice president of donor engagement. Lavey will lead the ministry’s fiscal functions, including long-term financial planning, acquisitions, financial stewardship, and organic initiatives, while Bowles will lead a team that is focused on fostering meaningful donor relationships and securing major funding partnerships to advance the mission of David C Cook.
“Both Steve and Rick have a heart for our ministry and will be invaluable resources as David C Cook continues to expand its offerings to fit the growing needs of Christians all over the world,” said Bill Reeves, CEO of David C Cook.
Lavey brings more than two decades of financial leadership experience across public companies, private equity-backed companies, and Christian nonprofits. His areas of expertise include scaling high-growth businesses, leading and driving financial strategies, and raising growth capital.
Most recently, Lavey led his own consulting service and investment company, Northlight Partners, and was co-founder and managing director of Vivoblu Inc., a Christian private equity-backed water filtration manufacturer that delivers clean water solutions to families in need and individuals in more than 33 countries.
Prior to Vivoblu, Lavey was global chief financial officer at Opportunity International, a Christian nonprofit serving more than 28 countries by providing microfinance loans, savings accounts, training and support to help more than 21 million families build sustainable livelihoods.
Lavey is a CPA and a graduate of the University of Michigan, where he received a bachelor’s degree focused on accounting and economics, and a master’s degree in business administration, majoring in finance and corporate strategy. In his new role with David C Cook, Lavey will report to President Jana Zachman and will join the executive leadership team.
“I am passionate about aligning business with purpose,” said Lavey. “And I am energized by the opportunity to put my experience to use at a mission-driven ministry like David C Cook.”
While Lavey will work out of the David C Cook headquarters in Colorado Springs, Bowles will work remotely from Dallas, reporting to Reeves.
Bowles is an experienced leader in the nonprofit sector. He most recently served as the vice president of advancement at Nelson University securing funding through donor engagement and outreach programs.
Prior to working at Nelson University, Bowles was the executive and multi-area director for the North Texas Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where he led fundraising efforts and helped to expand the team. He is a graduate of Nelson University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in ministry administration and a master’s degree in practical theology with a specialization in global compassion leadership.
“Joining a group of individuals that collectively share a heart for advancing the mission of the global church is something I am excited about,” said Bowles. “Through donor engagement, we can continue to provide valuable learning resources for today’s generations.”
