Tim Schaeffer, the senior vice president of Allen & Heath USA and American Music and Sound (AM&S), has announced his retirement following a professional audio career that’s spanned more than 45 years.
Innumerable audio professionals got their start with Schaeffer and counted him as an advisor and mentor. After humble beginnings in 1975 as an audio engineer, he met AM&S founder Lynn Martin and entered the industry side of pro audio as a sales representative with New West Audio in Southern California.
Fast-forward to 1995 and Schaeffer reconnected with Martin and joined AM&S for his first eight-year stint. After eight years away from AM&S at Listen Technologies (which was co-founded by his wife Cory Schaeffer), he rejoined the AM&S team, and as senior vice president of Allen & Heath USA, he presided over a period of exceptional growth of the brand which he has worked carefully to set up for continued success as he leaves for his next big gig, being a full-time grandfather.
“After almost five decades of incredible experiences, growth, and shared successes, I am bidding farewell to my cherished colleagues and moving on to the next chapter of life,” says Schaeffer. “As of January 31, 2024, I will be joining my wife Cory Schaeffer in the pursuit of chasing our grandchildren around the house. Reflecting on the past 50 years fills me with immense gratitude. I have had the privilege of working alongside remarkable individuals who have not only been colleagues but also friends. Together, we navigated challenges, celebrated victories, and created lasting memories that I will forever cherish.
“I know that I leave American Music & Sound capable hands—I’ve been calling them the ‘dream team’ and that is absolutely the case,” he continues. “The dedication and talent within AM&S assure me that the business will continue to thrive and grow. As I step into the realm of retirement, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the pride of being part of such a dynamic and supportive team. I extend my heartfelt thanks to this incredible Pro Audio Industry, filled with such wonderful people. Many of you have supported and guided me over my career and I am grateful to you all for making my journey in this industry unforgettable. I look forward to staying connected.”
Rob Impala, current vice president of pro audio at American Music and Sound, will continue to lead the Allen & Heath Team in the U.S. He’s worked with Schaeffer and key Allen & Heath partners in the UK over the last year on this important transition and we expect continued success.
“American Music and Sound and the entire extended Exertis | JAM ‘JAMily’ would like to wish Tim all the best in his next chapter,” says Impala. “We can’t thank Tim enough for the work he has done to position Allen & Heath USA and AM&S at the top of the game in pro audio.”
