Netflix Inc has appointed Bozoma Saint John as the company's new Chief Marketing Officer, starting in August, adding a high-profile Black executive to senior management.

Saint John, who has been vocal about inequality in corporate America, joins from entertainment and talent agency Endeavor where she was the head of marketing since 2018. She also previously worked at Apple Inc and Uber Technologies Inc.

Said Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos: “Bozoma Saint John is an exceptional marketer who understands how to drive conversations around popular culture better than almost anyone. As we bring more great stories to our members around the world, she’ll define and lead our next exciting phase of creativity and connection with consumers.”

The appointment comes at a time as U.S. companies are looking to diversify their workplace.

Saint John’s nearly 20-year career spans multiple industries including music and entertainment, consumer packaged goods, fashion, sports and automotive. Prior to Endeavor, she worked at Uber as Chief Brand Officer; was Head of Global Consumer Marketing for Apple Music and iTunes (including iTunes movies, iBooks and Apple News), and before that head of the Music and Entertainment Marketing Group at Pepsi-Cola North America.

Said Saint John: “I’m thrilled to join Netflix, especially at a time when storytelling is critical to our global, societal well-being. I feel honored to contribute my experience to an already dynamic legacy, and to continue driving engagement in the future.”

The exit of Lee-Joe is an amicable one, and on her, Sarandos said that “Everyone at Netflix is grateful for Jackie Lee-Joe’s contributions and we wish her all the best.”

The death of  George Floyd, at the hands of police has triggered protests in the United States against racism and police brutality, while also reigniting the debate of diversity in America's corporate boardrooms.

Netflix, earlier in the day, said it would allocate two percent, or about $100MN, of its cash holdings to financial institutions and organizations that directly support African-American communities in the United States.

Image source: Campaing