Elizabeth Rutledge, a seasoned marketing executive, serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at American Express, where she plays a pivotal role in overseeing global media, sponsorships, experiences, strategic brand planning, and customer insights. Notably, she made history as the first woman to hold this esteemed position at the financial services giant, demonstrating her leadership prowess and commitment to empowering colleagues, customers, and communities globally.
With a passion for providing the "Powerful Backing" that defines American Express, Rutledge has been at the forefront of the company's marketing strategy. Prior to assuming her role as CMO and becoming a member of the Executive Committee in 2018, Rutledge held various product, marketing, and insights roles within American Express. She notably served as the Executive Vice President, U.S. Card Products and Benefits, overseeing Consumer Charge and Lending portfolios, Co-Brand products, and Membership Rewards.
Rutledge's influence extends beyond her corporate responsibilities, earning her recognition as one of Forbes World’s Most Influential CMOs. Her accomplishments include receiving an Adweek Brand Genius Award and a Matrix Award from New York Women in Communications. Rutledge was also named to AdAge’s "Women to Watch" Class of 2019 and featured in The Holmes Report “Influence 100” list in 2019, showcasing her impact on the marketing landscape.
Dedicated to contributing to the industry and community, Rutledge sits on the Board of Directors for prestigious organizations such as the Association of National Advertisers, the Ad Council, the YMCA of Greater New York, and the MMA. She further demonstrates her commitment as the Global Executive Sponsor of the colleague Disability Awareness Network at American Express.
A graduate of Princeton University with an MBA from New York University, Rutledge's academic background compliments her wealth of practical experience. Her journey in marketing spans over 25 years, during which she witnessed and navigated the dynamic changes in the digital landscape. Rutledge reflects on the digital transformation, acknowledging the evolution from a time without the web to the current era of real-time customized, personalized marketing and an explosion of communication channels.
Rutledge's expertise was particularly instrumental during the COVID-19 crisis, drawing on her experience from the 2009 recession when American Express launched Small Business Saturday. Her strategic insights helped guide the company in supporting independent businesses grappling with the challenges of the extended lockdown.
Rutledge's leadership at American Express stands as a testament to her impactful contributions to marketing, paving the way for innovation and resilience in the financial services industry.