HSBC welcomes John McDonald as first-ever global CMO

UK – HSBC has appointed John McDonald as chief marketing officer, effective 1 October.

In this newly created role, McDonald will oversee the integration of marketing and brand functions across HSBC’s four core business areas: Hong Kong, the UK, HSBC corporate and institutional banking, and HSBC international wealth and premier banking.

He will be responsible for shaping the bank’s global marketing strategy, leading branding efforts, and driving client engagement in support of HSBC’s wider ambition to strengthen trust and customer focus across its operations.

Barry O’Byrne, CEO of international wealth and premier banking at HSBC, welcomed the appointment in a LinkedIn post, stating, “I’m delighted to welcome John McDonald to HSBC as our new chief marketing officer. He joins us at a pivotal time in our transformation – and his depth and range of experience will be invaluable as we sharpen our focus on wealth, accelerate growth, and build on a brand that truly resonates with our clients around the world.”

McDonald most recently served as group CMO at UBS. He brings over two decades of experience, having previously held senior leadership roles at organisations including Mastercard, British Airways, and WPP.

In a LinkedIn post announcing his departure from UBS, McDonald described the new HSBC role as a return home and noted the strategic scope of the position.

“My role at HSBC is a newly created global position, bringing together Brand and Marketing across all four of the bank’s core businesses. It’s a pivotal time to join—as HSBC reshapes itself to become simpler, more agile, and more focused on the needs of its clients,” he wrote.

“I can’t wait to contribute to that transformation and build on the incredible momentum my future colleagues around the world have already created,” he added.

The appointment comes as HSBC marks a period of activity across its global markets, including new campaigns, strategic partnerships, and its 160th anniversary celebrations.