NAMM Seeks New Director of Market Development to Serve the Music Products Industry by Creating New Music Makers

April 22, 2004

NAMM, the International Music Products Association, today announced that it is seeking worthy candidates to serve as the association’s director of market development, responsible for creating and implementing programs to help the industry target new customers. Rob Walker, NAMM’s current market development director, will be returning to his family in Australia after a successful three-year stint with the organization.

During Walker’s tenure, NAMM’s market development department served the music products industry by holding the fourth Global Economic Summit of the Music Products Industry in Estepona, Spain, and he has led the NAMM team in the planning of the 2004 Summit in August. Walker’s other accomplishments include consolidating the success and extending the Sesame Street Music Works program, including its export internationally; developing the Recreational Music Making and Wellness concept and packaging NAMM’s existing programs under this umbrella, encouraging NAMM Members to tap into the growing health and wellness movement. Walker also led the creation of “The Music Edge,” NAMM’s teen marketing initiative, and negotiated a groundbreaking partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He also acted as Executive Director of the American Music Conference, the industry’s public relations engine to the general public.

“NAMM’s market development efforts are about growing demand for music products and helping our Members succeed by helping them target new markets where future growth lies,” said Joe Lamond, president and CEO, NAMM. The market development department was established in 1989 and initially led by industry veteran Karl Bruhn. "We are grateful for Rob’s service during this time and can only hope to find someone who embodies the spirit, passion and creativity of the past directors in our next candidate for what many feel is the best job in the music products industry.”

“I have been honored to serve the industry in my time at NAMM,” said Walker. "I am very grateful for the opportunity and for the support and encouragement I have received from so many great people. I wish the NAMM staff and Members every success in the future.”

NAMM is currently accepting applications for qualified candidates for this position. To apply, interested parties may send an introductory e-mail and resume to Cathy Hughes, NAMM’s director of human resources, at nammresumes@namm.org or call 800.767.NAMM for more information.