JUNE 30 I FENDER I PERSONNEL
Fender CEO Retires

Bill Mendello recently announced his retirement as CEO and chairman of Fender after serving at the company for 30 years.

Mendello was a key figure in the buy-out of Fender from CBS in 1985. From a small general office, warehouse and manufacturing facility in California, Fender has grown to include manufacturing facilities in two countries and sales and marketing offices around the world. Mendello was appointed chairman of the board and CEO in 2005 and spearheaded the effort to acquire Kaman Music in 2007.

“I have been uniquely privileged to call Fender my second family for over 30 years,” Mendello said. “Now, after a 45-year career, I am looking forward to spending more time with my family, traveling and pursuing personal interests. I am very proud of the work I have accomplished and the people I have come to know in this industry, and I am especially happy to be able to retire with a great amount of confidence in the company’s future.”

A corporate succession plan has been in place for nearly a year in anticipation of this planned retirement. A new Fender CEO was recently appointed by the board of directors but will not be announced until a later date. Mendello will remain on Fender’s board of directors.

fender.com