Richard Willis, chairman/CEO of Charlotte, N.C.-based Baker & Taylor, has been named chairman of the National Assn. of Recording Merchandisers, replacing Glen Ward, who resigned from the board on Jan. 31.
Ward was appointed NARM chairman when he was president/CEO of Virgin Entertainment Group North America; he retained his position with the trade association after he left VEG in September. Now, he has been named co-CEO of Headplay Inc., a visual and aural technology company, a move that precludes him from continuing as NARM chairman since the company is neither a wholesaler or retailer, but a product supplier.
“I know our members will join me in expressing our appreciation to Glen for his outstanding service to the industry and to the NARM board over the past several years and congratulating him on his new endeavor,” NARM president Jim Donio says in a statement. “As well, I know our members will welcome Richard to his new post. With his diverse business experience, we believe he will be a valuable leader and guide to the association and board in the coming year.”
