French luxury fashion house CHANEL has appointed Katie Welch as Head of USA Brand and Company Communications, effective January 5, 2026.

Katie will report to Stéphane Blanchard, with a dotted line to Global Chief Communications Officer Ruth Warder, and will lead the integrated divisional Brand Communications and Company Communications teams. In this role, Katie will help shape and amplify the CHANEL story across the United States through creativity, connectivity, and cultural impact.

Katie joins CHANEL from Rare Beauty, where she served as Global Chief Marketing Officer, leading brand, product, and consumer marketing as well as creative, PR, influencer, partnerships, and social impact. 

Recognised for her ability to build high-performing teams and foster cultures rooted in collaboration, curiosity, and creativity, Katie will also join CHANEL's USA Management Committee.