ViacomCBS names former VIMN exec as marketing & communications chief

Julia Phelps

Newly minted US media giant ViacomCBS has bolstered its board with the appointment of Julia Phelps to oversee the company’s marketing and communications operations.

Phelps is to become exec VP, chief communications and corporate marketing officer at ViacomCBS and will assume the role upon the closing of the deal – expected before the turn of the year, reporting directly to CEO Bob Bakish.

She will be responsible for the company’s corporate communications, corporate marketing and corporate responsibility, as well as special events and internal creative teams.

Phelps has been at Viacom since 2005, most recently serving as exec VP of communications, culture and marketing.

In this position, she oversaw the global launch of Viacom’s ‘next-generation town hall’ Spark, its youth empowerment drive Generation Change and the development of Viacom’s corporate mission, vision and values.

Prior to that, she held a variety of roles including exec VP of communications at Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN), senior VP of corporate communications at VIMN and VP of corporate communications for Viacom.

Bakish said: “Julia has been a vital force in shaping and communicating Viacom’s strategy, and revitalizing its vibrant culture and dynamic, entrepreneurial spirit. Her leadership and skill in communicating and driving change will be invaluable as we bring together the talented teams of CBS and Viacom.”

This appointment follows the announcement of Anthony DiClemente as executive vice president of investor relations at the company.

The CEO continued: “Julia and Anthony are both highly experienced executives who have contributed significantly to the respective success of Viacom and CBS. I look forward to working with both of them, drawing on their insights and expertise, as we pursue a powerful growth strategy anchored in ViacomCBS’s position as one of the most important content producers and providers in the world.”