Industry Vets Ron Japinga, Scott Friedland Launch Next Level Music
F ormer Guitar Center CEO Ron Japinga and Scott Friedland, CEO of RocketMPS, have announced the formation of Next Level Music, a company dedicated to the consumer products, music instrument and accessory industry — with an approach that includes strategic acquisitions, innovative marketing and global manufacturing. Beyond acquisitions and manufacturing, Next Level Music offers business consulting
services tailored to companies within and beyond the music industry. With expertise in strategic growth, operational excellence, brand positioning and product development, the company provides hands-on guidance to businesses at every stage of development and growth. The inaugural acquisition under Next Level Music is RocketMPS, integrating its strategies and services into the holding company’s portfolio. {rocketmps.com}
Buffet Crampon Makes Moves at Powell Flutes T o better serve the North American mar- ket and its dealer and customer bases, Buffet Crampon USA (BCUSA) and Powell Flutes Boston have united to streamline management resources and foster a col- laborative spirit. As a result, the companies have announced several strategic position changes, effective now. Daniel Sharp has been promoted to vice president of business strategy and product development flutes for the Buffet Crampon Group. In this role, Sharp will be responsible for developing the European market, providing product and market- ing support, and leading Powell’s product development efforts. Monique Collins has promoted to chief financial officer North America and will lead the Buffet Crampon USA and Powell Flutes Boston financial teams. Daniel Comire has joined Powell Flutes as workshop manager and will oversee all production-related activities. Julia Viviano has been promoted to Pow- ell Flutes product specialist North America. The Buffet Crampon USA Sales team, led by Al Maniscalco as director of sales and marketing, will now be responsible for selling Powell instruments and accessories to our dealers. Kyler Hadley is the new Midwest di- vision manager for Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Kentucky, while Nicolas Maldonado will be the new West Coast division manager for California, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Idaho, Alaska and Hawaii. Finally, Jes- sica Bell has joined the BCUSA team as clarinet market specialist and technician. {buffetcrampongroup.com} New hires Jessica Bell (left) and Kyler Hadley.
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