Who it is: Deanie Elsner, named CMO of Kraft Foods Group
What’s her role: As the first to hold the title at Kraft Foods, Elsner is charged with maintaining the strength of the company’s brands by exploring innovative methods to drive consumer engagement.
Where was she prior: A veteran of Kraft since 1992, she was most recently president of Kraft’s beverages business, where she directed the launch of MiO and shepherded brands such as Kool-Aid, Capri Sun, and Gevalia. She previously managed Kraft’s European coffee business.
Why was she appointed: “Deanie is uniquely qualified to pioneer this role given her success in building some of the world’s most iconic brands throughout her 20-year career at Kraft,” says CEO Tony Vernon.
Who it is: Nigel Dessau, appointed CMO of Stratus Technologies, a mission critical applications provider
What’s his role: Dessau will lead product marketing and management functions globally.
Where was he prior: Starting his career in sales at IBM, Dessau went on to hold executive positions at AMD, StorageTek, and Sun Microsystems.
Why was he appointed: “He brings strong expertise in leading both global technology marketing and product management teams and these will be invaluable assets for driving Stratus’ initiatives forward,” says CEO and president Dave Laurello.
Who it is: Kevin Cochrane, named CMO of Open Text, a provider of enterprise information management software.
What’s his role: He’ll be responsible for strategic planning and implementation of OpenText’s global marketing efforts.
Where was he prior: Cochrane was most recently VP of product marketing for Adobe’s Digital Marketing Business Unit. Before that, he served as CMO of Day Software.
Why was he appointed: “Kevin brings a passion for brand, customers, products, and sales enablement, and I look forward to his many contributions,” says CEO Mark J. Barrenechea.
Who it is: Mary Heath, named the first CMO of the International Tennis Hall of Fame
What’s her role: Heath will be responsible for sponsorships for the Hall as well as for the Hall of Fame Tennis Tournament and the annual enshrinement of new honorees. She will also have oversight of all sales, marketing, and public relations initiatives.
Where was she prior: Senior director of sponsorships for the Hall since 2008, Heath was previously VP of IMG’s Tennis Division and was a director of the ATP World Tour and the WTA Tournament.
Why was she appointed: “Mary has developed the Hall’s relationships with sponsors, resulting in increased awareness for our mission,” says CEO Mark L. Stenning.
Who it is: John Worrall, appointed CMO of Cyber-Ark, a provider of global information software, focusing on operations in government, healthcare, financial services, and energy.
What’s his role: He’ll be responsible for leading the development and communications of the company’s marketing vision and advanced threat strategy.
Where was he prior: Worrall was most recently EVP of CounterTack and was previously VP and GM of RSA’s security intelligence business.
Why was he appointed: “The advanced threat landscape is forcing organizations to address the security challenges inherent in privileged and shared user,” says CEO Udi Mokady. “John’s vision and marketing leadership in the advanced threat and compliance solutions markets will help us continue to address the needs of our customers.”
