Korg USA Inc. announces the retirement of Senior Key Account Manager John Hamer after 10 years of service to the Korg USA family of products. Respected by colleagues as both a mentor and leader, Hamer’s savvy account management skills and broad understanding of the industry have contributed significantly to Korg USA’s goals.
“I’ve known John for almost 20 years, and his industry knowledge and experience has provided Korg USA with such a valuable asset for the last decade,” said Korg CEO Joe Castronovo. “His contributions to the organization and the professional development of everyone he’s worked with will continue to be felt. Korg USA wishes him all the best in his next adventure. Well deserved!”
Based in the Los Angeles area, Hamer brought extensive sales management, retail buying, merchandise planning, and allocation experience to Korg USA, managing more than $100 million in annual sales volume across 214 stores. His experience negotiating with multi-billion dollar large box and specialty retailers, as well as managing vendor relations, sourcing, and product development proved to be tremendous assets. Among his many accomplishments, Hamer drove guitar amplifier national market share from 31 percent to 40 percent and reduced clearance inventory by 27 percent, resulting in a 2.8 percent gross margin increase.
“John was always driven to find creative solutions when business became challenging,” said Brian Piccolo, Director of Brand Management at Korg USA. “His drive and passion to always push forward and achieve results was extremely impactful to our brands and company’s growth.”
Promoted from Manager, National Accounts to Senior Key Account Manager, Hamer served as the central point of contact for the Sweetwater account while continuing to manage the Guitar Center and Musician’s Friend accounts. During his decade-long tenure, he played a vital role in maintaining Korg USA’s relationship with Guitar Center, leveraging his past career experience as a Buyer/Planner/Inventory Manager for the retailer.
Beyond his role in accounts management, Hamer was an influential contributor to VOX and Blackstar development plans, supporting the global growth of both brands. Additionally, he brought his wide-ranging background consulting retailers around the country with the application of retail software at all functional levels.
While his calming demeanor and innovative mindset to growing the business will undoubtedly be missed, the Korg USA organization wishes Hamer all the best in his next chapter.
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