Schwartx to take top Coke role

L’Oréal UK marketing chief Jeremy Schwartz to be Coke’s north-west Europe marketing director

Coca-Cola has appointed Jeremy Schwartz as marketing director for north-west Europe. He will report directly to president of Coca-Cola north-west Europe Gavin Darby.

Schwartz joins Coca-Cola from cosmetics group L’Oréal with a brief to ensure “best practice” in marketing activity across the UK, Ireland, Benelux and France. His post has existed before, but not for some years. The north-west Europe division is part of the greater Europe group in Coca-Cola’s structure.

Schwartz says he will work alongside the marketing directors in each of the countries to improve co-ordination. But it is understood that the full parameters of the job are still to be worked out.

Coca-Cola insists the appointment will not undermine direct lines of communication to Darby enjoyed by senior marketing staff covering the UK.

Darby appointed Chris Banks, recruited from IDV Scotch whisky division Justerini & Brooks, in January this year to act as regional manager for Coca-Cola UK and Ireland, with overall responsibility for marketing.

Banks will continue to report directly to Darby, aided by UK marketing director Jan Hall.

Schwartz leaves his post at L’Oréal UK after initiating the high-profile campaign through McCann-Erickson for L’Oréal shampoo, featuring Friends star Jennifer Aniston.