Zondervan has named former Guideposts executive David Morris as vice president and publisher of nonfiction trade books, effective Aug. 19.

Morris joins Zondervan after leaving his position as vice president and editorial director for Guideposts Books. Guideposts announced earlier this month that its trade books program, which is mainly nonfiction and some fiction, will be discontinued.

Most recently, Morris oversaw Guideposts' acquisitions for the Christian trade as well as direct-to-consumer distribution. During his 17-year tenure at Guideposts, Morris held various editorial positions, working with marketing, design, sales and finance. Before Guideposts, Morris worked with Chatham House Publishers in New Jersey.

"We are thrilled to welcome David to Zondervan," said Annette Bourland, senior vice president and group publisher for Zondervan. "His expertise both in publishing and the Christian industry will serve as a great foundation for growth."

Mark Schoenwald, president and CEO of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Zondervan's parent company, added: "We believe that David is the right leader to continue this area of growth for our business. He believes in our mission to inspire the world with content that honors God and is committed to our authors' purposes."

Morris, who has a Ph.D. in religion and society from Drew University, will replace Tracy Danz, who is moving to backlist development for Zondervan's nonfiction trade titles. Morris will relocate to Grand Rapids, Mich.