Craig Malcor

Background

About Craig Malcor

With 44 years of management experience and 53 years as a passionate part-time musician, I currently serve as the Enterprise Microphone & Headphones Category Manager at Guitar Center. My journey in the music retail sector has included significant roles, such as managing the Keyboard department and overseeing General Accessories & Media. Notably, I dedicated two years to managing the Band & Orchestra category, where I honed my leadership skills and passion for music. Throughout my career, I have primarily focused on the tech side of the business, managing the Recording Category. This included selecting and marketing a diverse range of products, including audio interfaces, studio monitors, headphones, and microphones. One of my proudest achievements was leading the development of the next-generation Sterling (House brand) Microphone line, which launched in September 2017. This project not only refreshed the brand but also introduced an innovative active ribbon microphone. My musical journey began with a scholarship to Berklee College of Music, supported by the Boys Club of America from 1979 to 1981. I then embarked on my professional career at an independent Honda car and motorcycle dealer in Pasadena, California. Over 17 years, I rose through the ranks, starting as a car washer and eventually becoming the Automotive Service Manager, overseeing a team of 30 employees. My leadership resulted in a low turnover rate, with many employees remaining for over seven years. In I made a strategic career shift and joined Guitar Center as a sales associate in their new 52nd location. Over the past 26 years, I have worked diligently to fulfill my ambition of managing product categories, including Keyboards, Live Sound, Microphones, Recording, and Band & Orchestra, contributing to the growth of the company, which now boasts 303 stores. My diverse experience in both management and music has equipped me with a unique perspective and a deep commitment to the industry.