O2 scraps head of brand innovation role after exit

Mobile operator O2 has scrapped the role of head of brand innovation, following the departure of Susie Moore on maternity leave.

Moore was appointed to the role in March and was responsible for brand innovation across O2’s parent group Telefonica’s international markets, including the UK. She reported to global innovations director Russ Shaw, who will now take on the role in addition to his current responsibilities.

Moore has been at O2 for seven years and was previously head of brand andmarketing communications. Last year, former head of brand communications ShadiHalliwell took on Moore’sformer role, before being handed the position permanently. It is not known if Moore will now return to O2.

O2 recently stepped up its brand innovation area with the launch of O2 Bluebook – a Web portal that allows customers to publish mobile content online. It was supported by an ad by Vallance Carruthers Coleman Priest that presents the Bluebook as a safeguard for memories.

The company’s marketing team has undergone a number of changes over the past year. Former marketing director Shaw, who was appointed as capability and innovation director in 2006, was promoted to his group position at Telefonica last year (MW June 14, 2007).