VIZ Media Executive Vice President of Publishing Alvin Lu has left the company, ICv2 has learned.  Lu had been promoted to that position last year (see "Alvin Lu Named Executive V.P. Publishing").  Lu had been one of two top executives reporting to former CEO Hidemi Fukuhara before Fukuhara’s departure last year and his replacement with Ken Sasaki (see "Exec Moves Roundup").

Asked for comment, a VIZ spokesperson said, "It was really sad to see him go--he's been such a part of our history & growth over the 13 years he's been with the company.  We're grateful for all he's done to help us get to where we are now, and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors!"

Lu’s role will be filled by VP-Editorial Leyla Aker and Director of Sales & Marketing, Publishing Kevin Hamric, according to the spokesperson.   

Lu began his career at VIZ Media in 2000 and has worked to serve as one of the main bridges between the North American and Japanese publishing industries during the years of manga's phenomenal growth.  More recently he led VIZ Media's charge into original graphic novel content and digital delivery.