Procter & Gamble veteran Mary Putman has joined GE Appliances as marketing and brand VP.
Her appointment marks the second time that the Haier unit has tapped the consumer packaged goods sector to fill a major marketing post, following the addition of ex-Covergirl exec Rick Hasselbeck as chief marketing officer one year ago.
In her new role, Putman will be responsible for leading marketing and brand activities, including brand development, consumer and market insights, industrial design, digital and CRM (customer relationship management), pricing and promotions, marketing communications, advertising, and merchandising.
She reports to Hasselbeck, who has since been named chief commercial officer.
“Mary is a proven marketing leader with a passion for collaboration, motivating teams and differentiating brands in the marketplace,” Hasselbeck said. “[Her] positive attitude and proven successes are the perfect combination to help us build on our brand’s momentum as a market leader in products that enhance the everyday lives of owners.”
Prior to appliances, Putnam spent more than 14 years at P&G, working on major consumer brands including Olay, Safeguard, Herbal Essences, Nice’N Easy, Wella Professionals, Secret and Ivory. She most recently held the position of global associate brand director, personal cleansing.
