Hosa Technology Names Jon Croft as Director of Marketing, Jason Lynn as Brand Marketing Manager

Hosa Technology, Inc., a leading supplier of audio, video, and data connectivity solutions, is pleased to announce two key appointments: Jon Croft has been named as the company’s new Director of Marketing, and Jason Lynn has been tapped as its new Brand Marketing Manager. 

Jon Croft brings a wealth of experience in music marketing and digital strategy to the Director of Marketing role, where he will lead the company’s marketing efforts to drive growth and brand awareness in the MI/Retail space while also reaching into new markets in the AV Pro Installation and Integration markets. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Jon to the Hosa team,” says Mayumi Allison, CEO of Hosa Technology. “His proven track record of success in developing and executing integrated marketing campaigns, combined with his passion for our industry and connecting with audiences, makes him the ideal person to lead our marketing department into the future.” 

Croft joins Hosa from idfive, a digital marketing agency, where he served as Media Account Manager, developing and implementing digital marketing and media strategies for a variety of clients. Prior to idfive, he held marketing and sales leadership positions at music product manufacturers Mojotone and Ovation Guitars. 

“As a longtime user of Hosa products, I am excited to join Hosa and contribute to the company’s continued success,” says Croft. “Hosa is a respected brand with a rich history in the music industry and production spaces, and I look forward to working with the talented team to develop and implement innovative marketing strategies that connect with customers and drive business growth.” 

Croft holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Maryland.

In his role as Brand Marketing Manager, Jason Lynn will be instrumental in driving the company’s brand development, content creation, and customer experience. 

Lynn brings to Hosa Technology a wealth of experience as an accomplished senior creative strategist specializing in art direction, branding, and graphic design. He is known for delivering impactful solutions that drive successful products and marketing campaigns. A collaborative leader, Lynn excels in orchestrating design initiatives. 

“Jason’s creative vision will be pivotal as we evolve our brand and enhance our customer experience in alignment with our strategic goals,” said Jon Croft, Director of Marketing at Hosa Technology. 

Lynn’s career includes significant roles in the music technology industry, including positions at Yamaha Guitar Group and Line 6, where he led successful brand and product design initiatives. He has also worked as a freelance consultant, providing creative direction and design services to a variety of clients. 

Lynn holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Southern Arkansas University.

Hosa Technology CEO Mayumi Allison Elected to NAMM Board of Directors

Hosa Technology, Inc., a leading global provider of analog and digital connectivity solutions for the music and professional audio industries, is proud to announce that its CEO, Mayumi Allison, has been elected to the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Board of Directors.
Allison joins a distinguished group of industry leaders who will serve a three-year term, providing oversight and support of NAMM’s vision, mission, and objectives. The NAMM Board of Directors consists of 24 members elected by the NAMM membership.
“I am honored to be elected to the NAMM Board of Directors,” said Allison. “NAMM plays a vital role in supporting the music industry, and I look forward to working with my fellow board members to advance the organization’s mission and serve its members.”
As CEO of Hosa Technology, Allison leads a company that has been a NAMM member since 1987. She holds an MBA from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School and a B.A. in business marketing, with a minor in Japanese from California State University, Fullerton.
Allison’s election to the NAMM Board was announced at the 2025 NAMM Show during its annual meeting of members. She joins seven other newly elected board members:

Betty Bennett – CEO and Co-Founder, Apogee Electronics Corp.
Jenna Day – Owner, Day Violins LLC
Jeremiah Manriquez – President, CEO and Owner, Pecknel Music Co., Inc.
Tim Pratt – President and Owner, Dietze Music House
Thomas Ripsam – President and CEO, C.F. Martin & Co., Inc.
Tom Tedesco – President and CEO, The Music People
Hans Thomann – CEO, Thomann Musikhaus

Orange Amplification Announce New Managing Director: Sarah Yule

Orange Amplification is pleased to announce Sarah Yule is the company’s new Managing Director.
 
A respected member of the Music and Pro-Audio Industries, Yule has forged a leadership career working with some of the best-known brands including KEF, Audio Technica and ROLI where she won a Top 25 Women in Tech Award. With more than twenty years industry experience she will bring a wealth of knowledge to her new role.
 
Sarah will play a key part in the company’s goals, and we all look forward to Sarah joining us’ said CEO Cliff Cooper.
 
Commenting on her appointment Sarah Yule said ‘I am delighted to begin working with such an iconic and well-respected brand as Orange. I look forward to building on all its heritage and becoming part of its exciting future. I am truly thrilled to be part of the Orange Groupvgoing forward.’
 
For more information on Orange Amplifiers please visit Orange https://orangeamps.com/

Guitar Center appoints Jerry Brandehoff as Chief Merchandising Officer

 Guitar Center, the world’s largest retailer of musical instruments, announces the appointment of Jerry Brandehoff to the position Chief Merchandising Officer, joining the company’s Executive Team on February 3. The announcement was made by Gabe Dalporto, Guitar Center CEO, and reflects the company’s ongoing growth initiatives.

“Jerry is a dynamic and inspirational retail executive with over 30 years of experience leading merchandising and product teams for world-class global brands,” said Dalporto. “Through his leadership style, he is dedicated to empowering teams, driving performance, and fostering collaboration. He was selected after an extensive search, and he stood out as the clear leader to help deliver our critical strategic priorities this year.”

In his new position, Brandehoff will lead Guitar Center’s merchandising organization, which encompasses buying and planning of general merchandise and private label brands for Guitar Center across all channels. Dalporto continues, “This is a critically important role as we transform our assortment to serve the serious musician, with the outcome of accelerated revenue growth, margin expansion, improved customer satisfaction, tight inventory management, and ultimately, market share gains.”

Brandehoff joins Guitar Center from Wayfair, where he most recently held the position of Chief Merchant, as well as additional leadership roles during his tenure. Previously he held leadership positions with Gap Inc, PVH, and Williams Sonoma Inc. He will be based out of Guitar Center’s Support Center in Westlake Village, CA.  

“I am both thrilled and honored to be joining the leadership team at Guitar Center,” said Brandehoff. “Music and musical instruments play such an important role in the lives of musicians and fans alike, and Guitar Center has been at the heart of this for generations. I started playing the saxophone in elementary school, and fully appreciate the power that music and instruments can unleash on an individual. I look forward to taking guitar and keyboard lessons through the Guitar Center Lessons program.”

European Giants Algam Establish Algam USA Distribution

Algam SAS (Nantes, France), the leading European distributor of musical instruments, professional audio equipment, and lighting, is proud to announce its new subsidiary, Algam USA. This strategic expansion marks Algam’s commitment to bringing high-quality products and unparalleled distribution expertise to the American market.

Algam USA will be headquartered in California, a state synonymous with innovation as well as a dynamic music scene. This new venture will be spearheaded by CEO Matt McDevitt, a seasoned MI with over two decades of experience in the industry.

“We are incredibly excited to launch Algam USA,” said Gérard Garnier, President of Algam. “Our expansion into the United States represents a significant milestone in Algam’s growth strategy. With Matt McDevitt leading the charge and the support of the whole Algam organization, we are confident that Algam USA will successfully bring exceptional brands and innovative solutions to a new audience of musicians and audio professionals.”

Algam USA will serve as the exclusive distributor of LAG Guitars, along with other esteemed brands under the Algam portfolio. Musicians and retailers across the United States can now access Algam’s renowned products, known for their superior craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology[MM1] .

Under McDevitt’s leadership, Algam USA aims to foster strong relationships with American retailers and musicians, ensuring that Algam’s products meet the high standards of the U.S. market. The subsidiary will provide a modern approach to distribution with a focus on American marketing strategies, providing exceptional customer service, technical support, and educational resources to its clients.

“Joining Algam to lead Algam USA is a tremendous honor,” said Matt McDevitt, CEO of Algam USA. “I look forward to working closely with our team to deliver the quality, service and market innovation that Algam is known for. We are committed to building a strong presence in the U.S. to support musicians in their creative endeavors.”

Benjamin Garnier, General Manager of Algam, who has been instrumental in the European and Asian expansion of Algam, added, “The launch of Algam USA is a testament to our continued growth and dedication to the global music community. We believe our presence in the United States will further solidify our position as a leading distributor of musical instruments, pro audio equipment, and lighting.”

The company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service has established Algam as a trusted name in the industry.

See us at the NAMM show Booth 5720.

Please get in touch for any further info or to book an appointment.

Contact: Algam USA Email: press@algamusa.com Phone: (877) 420-5533


Ryan Juchnowski Promoted to Product Manager at Radial

Radial Engineering has announced that Ryan Juchnowski has been promoted to the role of Product Manager. A 17-year veteran of the company, Juchnowski previously held a dual position at Radial as product specialist and trade show manager. 

In his new role as Product Manager, Juchnowski will oversee the execution of Radial’s expanded product roadmap and lead the product development team’s focus on Radial’s commitment to design, engineer, and market world-class audio products designed around customers’ expressed needs and pain points.

Juchnowski has a Recording Arts diploma and brings multi-instrument playing experience as well as music retail experience to his new role. He spent the early part of his career at Radial working alongside company founder Peter Janis.

“Ryan is a natural fit for the Product Manager role as it relates to Radial’s commitment to designing, engineering, and marketing new products focused on the needs of players and audio professionals,” said Roc Bubel, Director of Sales and Marketing for Radial. “The opportunity to have someone with Ryan’s mix of industry experience as well as familiarity with Radial’s processes and people means a smooth and seamless transition for greater success in creating industry-leading products that address the needs of players and audio professionals at all levels.”

For more information, visit Radial online at www.radialeng.com.

D’Addario Launches Vintage-Inspired Products, Digital Content and Special Concert

D’Addario, the world-renowned manufacturer of musical instrument accessories, is marking its 50th anniversary with a series of special offerings that highlight the company’s rich history and enduring legacy.

“Our anniversary is a testament to our dedication to providing musicians with the tools and accessories that inspire their highest level of performance,” said Jim D’Addario, Founder & Chairman, D’Addario. “We’ve created these special offerings to invite our customers, partners, and employees to share in our celebration, as we remain grateful for their ongoing support. As we look to the future, we look forward to continuing to inspire and empower musicians for many more generations.”

While the D’Addario brand celebrates 50 years, the family’s string-making tradition dates back over 400 years. To share this incredible journey, D’Addario has launched a scrollable digital timeline on its website. This immersive retrospective offers visitors a glimpse into the company’s evolution—from its humble beginnings in Italy, crafting strings from sheep intestines, to becoming a global leader in the music accessories industry. In just minutes, visitors can explore generations of knowledge and innovation that define D’Addario’s story.

As part of the celebration, D’Addario is also releasing a limited-edition line of vintage-inspired merchandise that reflects the look and feel of the brand that musicians first fell in love with. The collection includes T-shirts, hats, and other memorabilia that connect long-time players as well as a whole new generation, to the brand’s iconic visual identity.

Additionally, D’Addario is releasing a limited edition 50th Anniversary Collector’s tin featuring the original packaging of Phosphor Bronze (acoustic) and XL (electric) strings, paying tribute to the brand’s very first groundbreaking strings.

D’Addario has also launched a multi-episode documentary series titled “Jim’s Corner.” In this series, Jim D’Addario sat down for 50 hours of interviews, offering an in-depth oral history of the company that will preserve the company’s story for future generations. Jim’s unique brand of storytelling captures his relentless pursuit of innovation that has driven D’Addario’s growth and leadership in the music industry.

The anniversary celebrations will culminate with “A World-Class Evening of Classical Guitar,” a special concert being held at Guild Hall in East Hampton on Saturday, Sept. 28. The event revives a D’Addario tradition from the 1970s, when Jim and Janet D’Addario established their original classical guitar concert series. This year’s concert is featuring legendary classical guitarists who have long been connected to D’Addario, including Paco Peña, Ben Verdery, and Badi Assad, and emerging icons Xuefei Yang and the Davisson Duo. The event highlights D’Addario’s ongoing support for musicians across the globe.

For more information on D’Addario’s 50th anniversary celebrations, please visit daddario.com.

Honoring the Legacy of Fender’s Mike Lewis

Fender has issued a statement regarding the recent passing of Mike Lewis, a stalwart member of the Fender team. During his tenure of more than 30 years, Lewis played an essential role in the development of Fender’s Custom Shop and Gretsch instruments, as well as the company’s line of amplifiers.


“Today, we reach out with heavy hearts to share the news of the passing of Mike Lewis, VP of Product Development at the Fender Custom Shop. Mike’s departure has left a void that will be felt deeply within the Fender family and guitar community. While his legacy and impact cannot be replicated, FMIC is honored to continue his legacy.

Mike first joined Fender in the Sales department in 1991, where he engaged with dealers over the phone. Later, he revitalized Fender’s evolving amp line, ensuring the business reclaimed the #1 market position by introducing iconic products such as the DeVille Series and the Vibro-King. Mike’s innovations also extended to Fender’s electric guitar department, where he actively contributed to guitar innovations based on player preferences. Notably, he introduced Fender’s first production Stratocaster with a regular humbucker: the Lone Star Strat.

His pioneering spirit was further demonstrated as he spearheaded Fender’s first online store, showcasing his commitment to pushing boundaries. Mike went beyond just overseeing the site; he immersed himself, acquiring unique coding skills. Mike consistently exhibited a voracious appetite for learning new skills, whether in bowling, tattoos, ukuleles, painting, photography, or web design—he delved deep into each pursuit.

Mike’s impact reached new heights when Fender collaborated with Gretsch. He revamped the entire line, restoring specifications to the original magic recipe, which resonated instantly with fans. His commitment went so far that he took an old ’59 6120 to a medical facility for an MRI and CAT Scan, ensuring authenticity in its internal construction.

In the Fender Custom Shop, Mike brought his design aesthetic and keen management skills, resulting in the best 10-year run in the shop’s history. His legacy is not just in running product lines but reimagining them, often tearing them back to their essence before rebuilding them anew.

Fender and the Fender Custom Shop mourn the loss of not just a colleague but a beloved member of our family. Mike’s passion for guitars and his unwavering dedication to his craft was evident in every project he touched. His legacy at the Fender Custom Shop is a testament to his profound influence, and we are deeply grateful for the time we spent alongside him.

“Mike Lewis didn’t merely oversee product lines; he possessed the rare ability to reimagine them, stripping them down to their essence and rebuilding them anew. His strong vision, cultivated over decades as a player, shaped his approach. From touring with Chuck Berry and opening for the Rolling Stones to serving as a studio session musician in 1970s NYC and owning a music store in Virginia, Mike’s wealth of experience, perspective, and wisdom became the foundation he brought to Fender. He didn’t just work here; he lived and embodied the spirit of the brand. Though I initially worked for him for many years, there came a point where the dynamic shifted, and he started working for me. And yes, throughout our time he consistently remained a mentor, a wellspring of wisdom, and, above all, a treasured friend until the end.” said Justin Norvell, EVP of Product at FMIC. 

Our thoughts are with Mike’s family, friends, and loved ones. We extend our deepest condolences and support during this difficult period.”

3RD POWER AMPLIFICATION PROMOTES JON HURLEY TO ARTISTRELATIONS AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

3RD POWER has promoted Jon Hurley to the position of Artist Relations and Business Development Manager. The move represents a strategic shift in artist and business development both locally and beyond. Hurley’s responsibility now expand beyond production and R&D, to also include artist, client, end-user experience and optimization, as well as new business development, better positioning 3rd Power for growth.


“From the moment I met him, it was obvious that Jon is a unique talent with an impressiveblend of passion, talent, creative capacity, strong business instincts and leadership traits,” said 3rd Power’s CEO, Founder and Designer Dylana Scott. “With this strategic change in how 3rd Power operates, we are excited about the positive impact it will bring to the business, our dealers, our artists and guitar tone seekers everywhere.”

“Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity to learn and be mentored by one of the most creative minds in the industry,” said Hurley. “I can’t put into words how special it is to be a part of such an iconic brand and what an exciting time is to be a part of 3rd Power’s future with such positive energy aimed at success. 3rd Power was founded on a platform of product excellence designed to deliver every nuance of a guitarist’s performance to their audience, an inspirational exchange Dylana calls, ‘emotional translation.’ I’m excited to be a part of this journey and we will remain focused on fulfilling the needs of our customers and creating the most inspirational guitar products possible.

Hurley most recently served as Lead Production Technician and has been with the company serving in a variety of key roles since 2021, rising from an entry-level solder tech position to his current executive role. Among his many accomplishments at 3rd Power, Hurley has served in a product development advisory role (2022 – 2023), an especially creative period during which he was instrumental in developing some of 3rd Power’s most innovative products. Prior to joining 3rd Power, Hurley studied audio engineering at Berkelee College of Music, was an audio engineer, live sound technician as well as guitar instructor. Hurley is
also a successful touring guitarist and 3rd Power endorser.

Gibson Brands Announces Beth Rasnick as Chief of Staff

Gibson, the iconic, leading American instrument brand, is proud to announce the promotion of Beth Rasnick to the role of Chief of Staff to the CEOGibson Brands, reporting to Cesar Gueikian

In her new role, Beth is empowered to act strategically as representative for the Office of the CEO internally and externally, collaborating with the Gibson leadership and extended leadership teams to determine and prioritize business strategies and action plans. She will lead the CEO Office with sponsored high-impact projects, as well as strategic business initiatives from ideation to implementation.

“Beth will be instrumental in driving our strategic priorities, leveraging 130 years of history shaping the sound of music, and focusing on our future through strategic actions in service to music fans around the world,” said Cesar Gueikian, President and Interim CEO, Gibson Brands.

“I’m honored and so excited to be taking on this important role in leading Gibson Brands into the future alongside an exceptionally talented team whom I know very well,” said Beth Rasnick, Chief of Staff, Gibson Brands. “My focus will continue to be on shaping our thriving world class instruments, sound and media/entertainment business across the global landscape and supporting our team through the limitless opportunities ahead.”

Throughout nearly a decade at GibsonBeth has held diverse key positions spanning finance, accounting, treasury, business acquisitions and divestitures, transformation initiatives, and corporate strategy. She is an emerging player of rhythm guitar which she has learned from her father. Prior to joining Gibson, Beth held leadership positions in Voya, Inc’s strategic finance group including during the company’s IPO and rebranding initiatives. She began her career at Ernst & Young serving multiple clients in Ernst & Young’s assurance practice. Beth holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Accounting from the University of Georgia. 

To view all current career opportunities at Gibson Brands, visit: https://www.gibson.com/en-US/Careers.