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MAY 23 I WEST MUSIC I CORPORATE West Retires, Walenta, Ryan West to Lead | |
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Steve West, longtime president of Coralville, Iowa-based West Music, announced he will retire on May 16. The company’s board of directors has named Robin Walenta as president and CEO, and Ryan West as senior vice president, effective June 1. Steve West will remain actively involved in special projects as company chairman. “I am more passionate than ever that people of all ages can be positively impacted through participation in music,” Steve said. “As I retire as president, I am confident in the abilities of our senior management team and in Robin’s leadership and ability to take us to the next level of success.” Walenta, who will celebrate her 25th year with West Music this June, was appointed to senior vice president and COO in April 1995. |   | |||
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Under her leadership, West Music has implemented a new enterprise resource planning system, redesigned all of its retail stores and made a substantial investment in Web technologies, resulting in double-digit growth of its national products and services divisions, according to a company statement. “I am fortunate to work with such talented and passionate people,” she said. “I look forward to working closely with the entire West Music team, who consistently provide exceptional service that exceeds our customers’ expectations and our continued success.” Walenta also joined NAMM’s board of directors this year. As a member of the association’s Ad Hoc Technology Committee, she assisted in the creation and implementation of XML formatting standards for music industry buyers and suppliers. Ryan West, Stephen’s son, said he’s “looking forward to continuing in the incredible business my grandfather started 67 years ago. West Music has taught so many people the power of making music, and I hope, with my help, we can reach even more.” He earned his bachelor’s degree in drama with a minor in Web applications from New York University’s Tisch School of Arts. He also holds a master’s degree in acting from the Moscow Art Theater in conjunction with the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University.
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