HSBC hires first ever global CMO

HSBC has hired its first ever global CMO, bringing together marketing and brand responsibilities across its four core businesses.

John McDonald will start the role on 1 October, based in London.

His most recent role has been at multinational wealth manager and bank UBS as Group CMO for just under three years. He has also held positions at Mastercard and British Airways, and agency-side at Publicis Group and WPP.

In a statement on LinkedIn, he said: “It’s a pivotal time to join — as HSBC reshapes itself to become simpler, more agile, and more focused on the needs of its clients. I can’t wait to contribute to that transformation and build on the incredible momentum my future colleagues around the world have already created.”

Barry O’Byrne, CEO, International Wealth and Premier Banking, said: “HSBC’s ambition is to become the most trusted bank globally, putting our customers at the heart of everything we do.

“We are excited to welcome John whose depth and range of experience will be invaluable – not only as we increase our focus on wealth, but as we accelerate growth, increase market share and build an even more distinctive brand that resonates with current and future clients across our businesses and markets globally.”

HSBC restructured at the end of 2024, splitting HSBC into four core divisions:  UK, Hong Kong, CIB and International Wealth and Premier Banking.

Recent major marketing initiatives have included a global brand campaign, which has encompassed the ‘Originals’ content series with Bloomberg, Conde Nast and Vox Media, media presence across 23 global airports and investments in strategic brand partnerships in Hong Kong and the UK.

HSBC CMO takes on customer transformation role