This week’s marketing moves include the exit of two senior marketing executives at Disney, the promotion of Tender Greens VP Jack Oh to chief marketing officer, the selection of Viacom veteran Julia Phelps as executive vice president, chief communications and corporate marketing officer in the anticipated ViacomCBS merger, the promotion of both Chobani and Arby’s chief marketers to company presidents and finally, the appointment of GE CMO Linda Boff as president of the GE Foundation and more.


Disney Drops Two Senior Marketing Execs

Disney has laid off two senior marketing executives, including 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment marketing EVP Greg Drebin and marketing VP Jennifer Chai, The Drum reports.

The latest layoffs hit as Disney restructures roles in the wake of its acquisition of 21st Century Fox. It’s anticipated that up to 4,000 staff could be let go, while 60 media distribution employees have already lost their jobs at both Disney and Fox.


Jack Oh Named Tender Greens CMO

QSR Magazine reports the promotion of Tender Greens VP Jack Oh to the position of chief marketing officer.

Before joining the modern cafeteria-style restaurant chain with a focus on locally-sourced dishes, Oh cut his teeth in a number of brand marketing roles focused on technology, entertainment and gaming at companies like Activision, Microsoft and others.

Most recently, he served as senior director of branding communications for adidas.


Julia Phelps Moves Up In Midst Of ViacomCBS Merger

Viacom and CBS jointly announced today that Julia Phelps will serve as EVP, chief communications and corporate marketing officer at ViacomCBS, pending closure of their expected merger.

Phelps has been with Viacom since April 2017 and has been operating under the title of EVP of communications, culture and marketing.

Her ambit outlined within the press release includes leading “the combined company’s corporate communications, corporate marketing, corporate responsibility, special events and internal creative teams.” She will report to Bob Bakish, president and CEO of Viacom, who is slated to become president and CEO of ViacomCBS.


NerdWallet Promotes Kelly Gillease To Newly Created CMO Position

NerdWallet’s VP of marketing is getting an upgrade, reports Campaign. Kelly Gillease is stepping into the newly created role of chief marketing officer at the finance platform. She has been with NerdWallet since August 2018.


Chobani’s CMO Promoted To President

Chobani announced a string of internal promotions today, leading with the appointment of their chief marketing officer, Peter McGuinness, to the role of president.

The announcement from Chobani, which is the second-largest overall yogurt manufacturer in the United States, lauded McGuinness’ six years of leadership at the company. 

McGuinness’ promotion comes as the brand situates itself as the only major US yogurt brand to grow in dollar sales and market share this year.


Linda Boff Named GE Foundation Board President

Linda Boff, chief marketing officer at GE, announced via LinkedIn today that she’ll be taking on an expanded role as president of the GE Foundation. She has served on the board since January 1.

The GE Foundation, a philanthropic organization with the mission statement of “transforming our communities and shaping the diverse workforce of tomorrow by leveraging the power of GE,” has created initiatives to advance STEM education in Boston Public Schools, provide improved access to healthcare across the developing world and supports disaster and humanitarian relief efforts globally.

Boff will be replacing Ann Klee who takes her leave at GE in September.


Shryne Group Hires CMO

Los Angeles-based Cannabis holding company Shryne Group has hired Elisabeth Baron as chief marketing officer.

Baron joins the company after leading marketing at Diageo and LVHM, working with brands such as Crown Royal, Johnnie Walker and Grand Marnier. Most recently, she led marketing for Stillhouse Spirits and Canndescent, a cannabis flower brand.

She will report to Brian Mitchell, CEO and co-founder of Shryne Group.


Arby’s Promotes CMO Jim Taylor To President

Arby’s CMO Jim Taylor has been promoted to president of the fast food chain, reports Biz Journals. He will replace Rob Lynch who vacated the role earlier this month to take up the position of CEO at Papa John’s.

Previous to serving as chief marketing officer, Taylor was the SVP of brand advertising and activation for Arby’s.


SVP, CMO Of Gemological Institute Of America To Retire

Kathryn Kimmel, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at the Gemological Institute of America, will retire August 30 after 29 years with the independent nonprofit.

Tom Moses, GIA’s EVP and chief laboratory and research officer, noted in the statement announcing the departure that “Kathryn’s expertise, guidance and unerring dedication to GIA’s mission helped to make our Institute what it is today.”


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Editor’s Note: Our weekly careers post is updated daily. This installment is updated until Friday, August 30th. Have a new hire tip? We’re looking for senior executive role changes in marketing and media. Let us know at editorial@alistdaily.com.


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