Director of National Business is in the Business of Shaping Future Leaders in the Industry

Philadelphia, PA — May 9, 2023 — Exertis Almo, the largest and most specialized value-added North American AV distributor, today shared that Karen Castaño, Director of National Business for Exertis Almo has been named a 2023 member of leading systems integration magazine SCN’s (Systems Contractor News) ‘The Nine’ cohort.

Considered among the most recognized and admired awards in the AV industry, SCN’s The Nine recognizes young professionals in the audiovisual industry who are already making an impact on the future of AV. According to SCN, these recipients take risks, forge new paths, and bring both professionalism and positivity to the workplace. They are The Nine – and the future of Pro AV is in the hands of individuals like these young leaders.

"At SCN, we see The Nine as an annual opportunity to shine the spotlight on the next generation of Pro AV leaders and champions," said Mark J. Pescatore, content director, Systems Contractor News. "This is a great industry, and people like Karen are helping to shape our future."

Rob Ziv, vice president of business development and strategy for Exertis Almo explained, “Karen’s energy is infectious, and her support and guidance are unmatchable. She is a shining star at Exertis Almo and in this industry.” He continued, “As a strong and successful leader, Karen is paving the way for other women in AV, particularly those moving into previously male-dominated positions.”

As Director of National Business for Exertis Almo, Castaño is responsible for guiding a national team of account manages and customer engagement representatives. She oversees key Exertis Almo accounts across the US and develops specialized programs for them, while also handling day-to-day operational functions for those customers. With six years in Pro AV, Castaño started at Stampede and stayed on board through the transition to Exertis then to Exertis Almo in April 2022.

Castaño holds an MBA from Claremont Graduate University in California and a BA in Theater from UCLA. In her spare time, Castaño enjoys photography and writing, as well as chasing around her two-year-old triplets.

About Exertis Almo

Exertis Almo is the largest value-added North American Professional AV distributor offering its reseller partners the most expansive range of products, managed services, technical support and training to drive business growth and generate profits. Formed in 2022 following Exertis’ acquisition of Almo Corporation, Exertis Almo harnesses the combined sales, service, marketing and subject matter expertise of Almo Professional A/V and Exertis Pro AV to deliver customized business development strategies, programs and educational events that enable partners to thrive. With a highly-accomplished joint leadership team, more than 250 employees, 12 distribution facilities, and 2.7 million square feet of warehousing space, Exertis Almo provides the specialization and resources its partners need while maintaining the personal distribution approach they expect. For more information about Exertis Almo, go to www.exertisalmo.com.

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Media Contacts:

Melody Craigmyle                     Traci Schaefer                         

Almo Corporation                      TLS Communications, Inc.

888-420-2566, ext. 6520            630-269-4567

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