The former Rare Beauty executive joins the maison to lead strategic storytelling and communications across the U.S.
Chanel Inc. has named Katie Welch as Head of U.S. Brand and Company Communications, effective January 5, 2026. The newly created role underscores Chanel’s commitment to strengthening its brand narrative and communication strategy across the American market.
Reporting to Stéphane Blanchard, president of the U.S. Region and Chanel Inc., Welch will oversee the maison’s integrated communications teams and guide how Chanel’s story is expressed nationwide.
Welch joins Chanel from Rare Beauty, where she served as Global Chief Marketing Officer and helped define the brand’s holistic approach to product, consumer, and purpose-driven marketing. She was instrumental in positioning Rare Beauty as a modern beauty brand built on authenticity, inclusivity, and emotional connection. Previously, Welch held the same role at Hourglass, leading brand expansion and positioning during its acquisition by Unilever. Earlier in her career, she spent several years at Weber Shandwick, pioneering integrated marketing strategies that bridged global storytelling with localized cultural relevance.
“Katie is a dynamic leader who brings both strategic vision and creative instinct to her work,” said Blanchard. “Her deep understanding of brand storytelling and her ability to connect with audiences through creativity and purpose make her uniquely suited to lead this next chapter for Chanel in the U.S.”
In her new capacity, Welch will also join Chanel Inc.’s U.S. Management Committee. The divisional heads of brand communications — Ellie Hawke (Watches & Fine Jewelry), Nancy Hawthorne (Fashion), and Nicole Sullivan (Fragrance and Beauty) — will report directly to her.
Her appointment follows Adina Kagan’s transition to Head of Strategy and Transformation, where she continues to drive organizational innovation and long-term growth through the maison’s Transformation Office.
Welch’s arrival reinforces Chanel’s ongoing investment in creative leadership and purposeful communication, ensuring the brand’s storytelling remains as timeless and resonant as its legacy.