Jonathan Merkh has resigned as senior vice president and publisher of Thomas Nelson imprint Nelson Books after 12 years with the company. The move comes in what The (Nashville) Tennessean called “a disagreement over the company's strategy” since the company's announcement to fold all its imprints into a single brand name with strategic publishing units.

Merkh told The Tennessean he had “questions as to whether … they're going to see the results that they hope to see. If there's ever a time to walk away it's during a time of transition. … The best thing I could do was step aside.”

Thomas Nelson President and CEO Michael Hyatt said he was “saddened” by Merkh's resignation. “He has played a key role in our growth over the past few years. … Nevertheless, I respect his decision. Although I am disappointed to see him go, I have great confidence in our management team.”

Associate Publisher Brian Hampton has been named as Merkh's successor until the April rebranding, when he will assume the role of senior vice president and publisher for corporate brands.