"It was important to announce a decision early so that an orderly succession plan can be put into place," says Johnson, who will have completed 32 years of service with the Evangelical Covenant Church upon his retirement.

"It has been a privilege to work with our investors over the years, who make it possible for us to work with our local churches," Johnson says. "Watching our churches build and grow has been a rewarding and enjoyable experience."

"National Covenant Properties has enjoyed much success under David's leadership over the years," says Marshall Dahlstrom, chair of the NCP board who is directing the search process. "The continued success of NCP's support of church growth within the Covenant is the top priority of the NCP board."

Plans call for an extensive search process, with a candidate to be introduced during the 2007 Annual Meeting in Portland, Oregon. Dahlstrom requests that anyone desiring to recommend names of potential candidates either email them to him at mdahlstrom@rockwoodco.com or send them by regular mail to Marshall Dahlstrom, The Rockwood Company, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 960, Chicago, IL, 60606. Qualified candidates desiring to submit a cover letter and resume should direct those to Dahlstrom by email or regular mail as well.

Those interested in learning more about the responsibilities and qualifications for the position can read the job description online at NCP Job Description.

Prior to his association with the Covenant, Johnson held accounting positions with two for-profit firms. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from North Park University in 1966 and his Master's of Business Administration from Loyola University in 1973. He received his C.P.A. Certificate in 1974.