Amazon.com announced March 6 that it has named Diego Piacentini as its senior vice president and general manager international.

Piacentini was formerly vice president and general manager of Apple Computer Europe, Inc. Piacentini joins Amazon.com after a successful 13-year career with Apple Computer Europe, where he held several positions both in finance and sales.

"We are extremely excited to have Diego join our Amazon.com team," said Joe Galli, Amazon.com president and chief operating officer. "Diego has proven leadership skills and a great track record in building solid and efficient organizations. His expertise in serving European markets and customers in a way that reflects local cultures, laws, and customs will be invaluable in bringing a great customer experience to shoppers globally."

As senior vice president and general manager international for Amazon.com, a new position, Piacentini will oversee the company's existing international businesses in the United Kingdom and Germany, as well as future global expansions. He will report to Galli.

Prior to Apple Computer, Piacentini worked for the Fiat Group in Milan, Italy. He holds a graduate degree in economics from Milan's Bocconi University.

Posted March 9, 2000