Starling picks Apple, Microsoft veteran for CMO role

Starling Bank has appointed a new CMO, who brings over two decades of experience at some of the world’s biggest tech giants.

Michele Rousseau, who joined the UK-based neobank in November, brings experience from Expedia Group, Apple, Microsoft, and Xbox.

Most recently, she served as Senior Vice President of Global Marketing and Creative at Expedia, where she led international campaigns to strengthen the firm’s market presence.

Prior to this, her 12-year tenure at Apple included leadership roles such as Managing Director and Brand Director, during which she contributed to some of the tech giant’s branding and customer engagement initiatives.

She also headed integrated marketing at Xbox, Microsoft’s video gaming division.

At Starling, Rousseau will oversee the neobank’s brand development, customer engagement, and product marketing.

Raman Bhatia, Group CEO at Starling Bank, said: “Michele’s exceptional track record in marketing makes her the ideal leader to elevate our brand and accelerate our market positioning. Her strategic vision and passion for customer experience will be crucial to our continued expansion.”

Rousseau said: “Starling’s relentless focus on the customer, combined with its industry-leading technology, puts it in a unique position for growth. I’m delighted to join a team of passionate marketers as we elevate Starling’s brand and marketing efforts to the next level.”