CBS and Viacom Aug. 29 jointly announced that Julia Phelps has been named EVP, chief communications and corporate marketing officer of ViacomCBS, effective upon closing of the deal to combine CBS and Viacom.
Phelps, who has served as EVP of communications, culture and marketing at Viacom since 2017 will report to Bob Bakish, president and CEO of Viacom, who will serve as president and CEO of ViacomCBS upon close.
In her new position, Phelps will lead the combined company’s corporate communications, corporate marketing, corporate responsibility, special events and internal creative teams.
“Julia has been a vital force in shaping and communicating Viacom’s strategy, and revitalizing its vibrant culture and dynamic, entrepreneurial spirit,” Bakish said in a statement. “Her leadership and skill in communicating and driving change will be invaluable as we bring together the talented teams of CBS and Viacom.”
Phelps’ appointment follows the Aug. 28 announcement of Wall Street analyst Anthony DiClemente being named EVP of investor relations at ViacomCBS, also effective upon close.
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“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,” Bakish said.
In her previous position, Phelps oversaw a variety of important initiatives, including the development and roll out of Viacom’s corporate mission, vision and values; the global launch of “Spark,” a next-generation town hall to equip and engage employees; and “Generation Change,” a global platform designed to elevate and empower young people who drive change around the world.
Before that, Phelps served as EVP of communications at Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN), where she led VIMN’s internal and external communications efforts for Viacom’s international brands, including MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount Channel, VH1, COLORS and Channel 5.
Previously, she served as SVP of corporate communications for VIMN and as VP of Corporate Communications for Viacom.
Phelps first joined Viacom in 2005 from New York based agency DeVries Public Relations. A native of Canada, Phelps earned a B.A. in political science from the University of Victoria in British Columbia, and an M.S. in strategic communications from Columbia University.