La Marzocco International has named Guido Bernardinelli as its next CEO. A statement from the Italian espresso machine manufacturer praised Bernardinelli’s commitment to preserving La Marzocco’s heritage and culture with new product developments, establishing new offices globally and developing the next generation of employees and partners. 

Bernardinelli has more than 25 years’ experience in the coffee industry, establishing a catering equipment-focussed business in 1989. He later developed expertise in the international speciality coffee working as a coffee machine sales manager in the US. In 2002 he joined La Marzocco as a sales, and later Marketing Manager before becoming Managing Director of La Marzocco Srl in 2009.

Outgoing CEO Kent Bakke, said Bernardinelli had been a “long-term pivotal member of the Management team… instrumental in developing and executing the company’s strategic goals.” The appointment would also an important step in La Marzocco’s development, he said, adding “I believe that he will continue to lead and advance our brand, culture and international team.”

Bakke is credited with developing La Marzocco’s presence in the US, most notably the firm’s deal with Starbucks in the 1990s. A spokeswoman for the company confirmed that he will remain at the company in an advisory role on the board.

Responding the appointment, Bernardinelli praised his colleagues, saying “My most respectful and honoured feelings go to the board, (Linda Ginsburg, Joe Monaghan, Massimiliano Valenti) and long-time friend and mentor, Kent Bakke, for their trust and recognition in appointing me to this role. Mindful of such responsibility, I hope to perpetuate my predecessors’ achievements and foreknowledge of the coffee community.”