New ad man cometh

Michael Gossett is the latest brave soul to step into the difficult job of selling advertising for small circulation newspapers with a widely distributed reader base.

His title-national sales manager for both ChristianWeek and ChristianCurrent-means he must blanket the country in a quest to deliver the eyes of Christian readers to the ministries and businesses seeking to attract their attention.

Michael, who first connected with this organization last fall, describes his new role as “selling solutions to our clients, and helping get the word out for others.” He is taking on many of the responsibilities previously held by William Leighton, who left CW last month after a remarkably productive two-and-half-years of work.

“During his tenure he increased revenue to FPW by almost 50 per cent while developing sales programs that are innovative and effective,” says marketing director Gus Henne. “William’s perspective of satisfying the clients objectives always guided his decisions.”

Michael was raised and educated in British Columbia, eldest of five children and the son of a preacher. “My father always encouraged us to learn how to communicate, and he put me onstage in church from the age of three,” he says.

Adult experiences include serving as a missionary overseas, particularly in the West Indies, most of Asia and South America, mostly in musical ministry, with some preaching. At one time he owned a recording studio and produced a number of albums. As a songwriter, his interest in theatre led to writing and producing several plays and musicals.

Michael’s family consists of his wife Shelley, a teacher and special needs tutor, and his children-Victoria, a Grade 11 student, part-time lifeguard and musical like her father; and James, a Grade 10 student and computer whiz who regularly assists his dad with the technical stuff.

“It is essential for a Christian to be able to articulate reasons for belief, which is the primary reason I enjoy working with ChristianWeek,” says Michael. “Our publications represent the cause of Christ well. I am pleased to be part of this team.”