Yamaha Guitar Group Inc., today appointed Joe Bentivegna to president of the Calabasas, Calif.-based company. In his new role, Bentivegna, currently the organization’s chief operating officer, will assume leadership of Yamaha Guitar Group and its responsibilities in managing three of the guitar and bass industry’s leading brands: Yamaha Guitars, Line 6 and Ampeg.
Marcus Ryle, current president of Yamaha Guitar Group and co-founder of Line 6, will continue in his role through the end of March, and Bentivegna will assume his new role beginning April 1.
Bentivegna joined Line 6 10 years ago, and as COO he has been overseeing and building teams that manage the company’s product development, supply chain, IT, logistics and customer support functions. He has been vital in leading the company through its continued growth and transition into a member of the Yamaha family. Previously he served a 16-year tenure at digital media powerhouse Avid, where he was chief operating officer for the Video Division.
“I’m thrilled to be passing the torch to someone who appreciates the company’s culture and our customers so much, and is such a great fit for the role,” said Ryle, “With his history and proven track record, I’m confident Joe is the right person to lead the organization into the next phase of innovation and development.”