La Marzocco appoints Guido Bernardinelli as CEO

Italian espresso machine manufacturer La Marzocco has announced the appointment of Guido Bernardinelli as its new Chief Executive Officer. Kent Bakke, former La Marzocco International CEO, said he believed Bernardinelli would continue to lead and advance the brand, culture and international team. “As a long term pivotal member of the Management team, Guido has been instrumental in developing and executing the company's strategic goals,” Bakke said. “This leadership transition represents a significant milestone in advancing La Marzocco's legacy into the future. I am confident in his experience, vision and passion for growing the company.” Bakke, who has championed espresso machine innovation for more than 40 years through his role at La Marzocco, will remain involved as a Member of the La Marzocco International Board and advisor. Bernardinelli has worked in the coffee industry for more than 25 years, starting in 1989 in an export business focused on catering equipment. He then began working as a Sales Manager in the United States for an Italian coffee machine manufacturer, experiencing the fast=paced international coffee scene. The new CEO joined La Marzocco in 2002, moving from Sales Manager to become Marketing Manager, before being named Managing Director on 2009. During his involvement in the company, Bernardinelli has been committed to maintaining La Marzocco's heritage and culture, in addition to product development and the opening of branch offices worldwide. “My most respectful and honoured feelings go to the board and longtime friend and mentor Kent Bakke for their trust and recognition in appointing me to this role,” Bernardinelli said. “Mindful of such responsibility, I hope to perpetuate my predecessors' achievementsand foreknowledge of the coffee community.”