MetLife Taps AT&T Exec for CMO Spot
December 10, 2014 by Nathan Golia, senior editor of Insurance & Technology.
Esther Lee will lead global brand and marketing for the life insurance carrier.
MetLife has named Esther Lee EVP and global Chief Marketing Officer. The former AT&T executive’s first day is January 12, and she will report to MetLife chairman, president, and CEO Steven Kandarian.
Lee replaces Beth Hirschhorn, who left MetLife in April and is now CMO at Kaplan, an educational services company. She will manage all aspects of global marketing, advertising, and promotion for MetLife.
Lee’s title at AT&T was SVP of brand marketing, advertising, and sponsorships. She also was CEO of the marketing agency, Euro RSCG.
“As MetLife focuses globally on meeting evolving consumer needs, Esther’s deep understanding of international brand and marketing dynamics and her success in leading the growth of established worldwide brands such as AT&T and Coca-Cola will be tremendous assets,” Kandarian said in a statement. “Her broad record of achievement in marketing, advertising and brand management will add a valuable perspective to the Executive Group as we seek new value creation opportunities and strive to develop new and simplified customer experiences.”
