Charlie Smith, Nothing
What changed? To bookend the year, tech challenger Nothing has appointed Charlie Smith as its first chief brand officer. He joined from LVMH brand Loewe, where he has spent the last seven years as CMO leading cool projects including dressing Rihanna for the Super Bowl.
Why it matters: London-based Nothing styles itself as an alternative to Apple and Samsung, manufacturing sleek smartphones, watches, and audio accessories. Since 2020, it’s raised $200 million in funding, and it’s preparing for its AI-powered future. Now it’s banking on Smith to help it challenge the status quo. – Rebecca Stewart
CMOs to the C-Suite
Diana Haussling, Hello Products
What changed? Diana Haussling became the latest marketer to step into the CEO office in February, moving from her role as senior vp, general manager, consumer experience and growth, and CMO for North America at Colgate-Palmolive to lead Hello Products.
Why it matters: Buzzy startup Hello, which sells “naturally friendly” toothpaste, mouth rinse, toothbrushes, and floss, was founded in 2013 and acquired by Colgate in 2020. Haussling’s move mirrored a trend of CMOs becoming CEOs, and set the tone for more of the same in 2025. – Rebecca Stewart
Soyoung Kang, EOS
