Thurman is widely regarded as an expert in international philanthropy, both Christian and humanitarian. Before joining Cook, Thurman was CEO of Geneva Global Inc., which researched and placed grants in more than half of the countries of the world, company officials said.

Thurman is leading the expansion of Cook's missional programs in under-served countries. Last year, donations through Cook's Global Mission provided Christian resources to more than 5 million people.

"Our search for the best fit took over two years, but it was well worth the wait," Cook President and CEO Cris Doornbos said. "Eric has the right experience, passion and leadership skills to fulfill our commitment to place much-needed, biblically based learning materials in the hands of people who would otherwise be unable to purchase them."