Store departures

The top two managers at the Anglican Book Centre in Toronto have resigned. General manager Dan Benson, who has been with the internationally-known retailer of books, vestments and other church items for 10 years, has accepted a management position with the United Church of Canada. As executive minister for resource production and distribution for the Toronto-based denomination, he will be responsible for publishing, retail/mail order operations, Web site supervision and audio visual production. His resignation was effective Jan. 13. Retail sales manager Dan Graves, whose resignation was effective Jan. 6, joined the store in 1994 as a customer service representative. He was promoted to assistant manager in 1995. His responsibilities were broadened to include book buying, relationship-building and marketing; his title was revised to retail sales manager in 2002. He is currently pursuing a master of divinity degree at Trinity College in Toronto and intends to pursue ordained ministry. The book centre has undergone some difficulties. After reporting losses in 2003 and 2004, six staff members were laid off last September and its opening hours were cut. The retail sales manager position will not be filled, said Peter Blachford, treasurer of General Synod, and the general manager position is being evaluated. Currently, a 10-member operations team consisting of staff, management and a consultant, is managing the store.