Karen McElhatton appointed Chief Technology Officer

Today we announced the appointment of Karen McElhatton as Chief Technology Officer, reporting to Angela Cretu, Avon Chief Executive Officer, and Silvia Lagnado, Natura &Co Sustainable Growth Officer.

Karen McElhatton has 18 years’ international experience in the technology profession, across consumer, retail and automotive sectors, most recently as Group Chief Information Officer at McLaren Group. Prior roles including leading IT at regional and global levels for Procter & Gamble, TJX International and JAB Luxury.

Karen has a deep understanding of all aspects of Information Technology, from delivering large-scale transformation programmes, to improving digital consumer experience, to building and launching ecommerce platforms and to leading business planning and service delivery. Karen sees technology as an enabler of performance and understands the importance of collaboration and building relationships with local and global teams to understand the needs with a commercial lens.

In her role, Karen will oversee the continuing digital transformation at Avon and will play a group role with oversight for Technology across Natura &Co.

Speaking about her appointment, Karen said, “I am thrilled to be joining Avon at such a pivotal moment. With a clear strategy and desire to accelerate a digital transformation, we can continue to elevate the experience for Representatives, consumers and employees. I’m proud to be joining such a purpose-led brand and very much looking forward to working with the talented teams.” 

Angela Cretu said, “Digital transformation is critical to our Open Up & Grow strategy. Karen’s appointment will ensure we have the very best technology roadmap to enable us to be effective and agile so that we can compete in a highly digitised marketplace. By digitalising our Representatives and creating an omni-channel shopping environment, we will reach more consumers, with a personalised, high-touch, high-tech experience. I am so excited to welcome Karen to the Avon family.”

Silvia Lagnado added, “We are delighted to have such an experienced leader collaborating with our four businesses to further shape the ambitious technology agenda across the Group.”