In a move that did not come as a surprise to industry insiders, Sheryl McKean has resigned as executive director of the Canadian Booksellers Association. "It was a matter of time. I knew, just as everyone else did, that the heat was starting to warm her backside in recent months," said Nicholas Hoare, of Nicholas Hoare Books, an on-and-off member of the CBA for years. "We all knew that sooner or later she would have to leave or be asked to, and the fact that she has done so now is very good timing for everybody," he added.
In a brief statement to its members, the CBA said that McKean left to pursue alternative career options, adding that the organization will continue to represent the interests of members at industry and government meetings. "Our goal is to be an open, engaged association that acts in a transparent manner ensuring we understand and represent booksellers' interests," the organization said. In order to keep the lines of communication open with members, the board has asked Susan Dayus, CBA's executive assistant, to assume the position of office manager.
Hoare believes McKean's departure paves the way for a new executive director to come in and revitalize the organization. "I'm delighted. I have no axe to grind with Sheryl. She tried to do a very good job under difficult circumstances, but I think out of the ashes there can be a phoenix in all this. We really need someone who is a seasoned bookseller rather than a professional diplomat. We need someone who can speak for the whole organization," he said.
