Jessica Ling Named CMO of American Express

American Express has announced its new Chief Marketing Officer. 

Jessica Ling, currently the company’s Executive Vice President of Global Advertising, will be taking over from American Express veteran Elizabeth Rutledge, who first joined the company 37 years ago. 

This follows Elizabeth’s announcement in October 2026 that she plans to retire from her role in March 2027. 

“I’m honoured to share that I’ll be stepping into the role of Chief Marketing Officer at American Express,” says Jessica. “Since joining the company in 2019, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside exceptional colleagues and partners whose creativity, ambition and commitment to our customers continually push our brand forward.” 

Marketing leadership expertise

Jessica first joined American Express in October 2019 as a Vice President and General Manager of Global B2B Marketing. Since then, she has progressed to roles leading B2B marketing and advertising, before stepping into her current role as Executive Vice President of Global Advertising in May 2024. 

In this role, she leads American Express’s global advertising strategy, which involves managing a team of more than 200 marketers across global media strategy and activation, creative content and social, brand and product design, analytics and measurement and integrated programme strategy and management.

“Behind this extraordinary brand are extraordinary people who challenge conventions, set new standards and bring our vision to life in meaningful ways,” says Jessica. “I’m proud to lead this organisation as we build on our momentum and shape what comes next.” 

Prior to joining American Express, Jessica held a range of senior marketing leadership roles at AOL and Verizon Media, with a particular specialism in B2B marketing. 

A four-decade career

Jessica’s appointment follows the news that Elizabeth would be retiring, after close to four decades at American Express. 

“As I reflect on this incredible journey, I’m filled with gratitude for #TeamAmex,” Elizabeth said, announcing her retirement on LinkedIn. “For me, it has always been, and always will be, about the people. 

“To my Amex colleagues, past and present, thank you for your partnership, friendship and unwavering commitment to powerfully backing our customers and for being with me on this incredible journey.” 

Having first joined the company in 1990, Elizabeth rose up the ranks, holding a range of leadership roles – such as EVP, Global Network Marketing and Information and EVP, Global Advertising and Brand Management – before taking on the Chief Marketing Officer role in 2018. 

During this time, she has helped transform American Express’s marketing model, taking the company from a heritage financial institution to a culturally relevant brand globally, by shifting it to be more lifestyle oriented. 

This has involved targeting younger generations through experiential marketing and sponsorships with brands such as Formula One. 

“My deepest thanks to Elizabeth Rutledge for your leadership, mentorship and friendship,” says Jessica. “Your impact on this brand, and on all of us who have had the opportunity to work with you, is immeasurable. You’re an icon.” 

Who are American Express’s key partners?

• Uber – Uber is a long-standing AMEX lifestyle partner. Select Platinum and Gold cardholders have received monthly Uber Cash credits for rides and Uber Eats orders once their card is linked in the Uber app.
• Amazon – Amazon is a retail partner for AMEX cardholders. Members can pay with points at checkout through the “Shop with Points” feature and AMEX has offered periodic Amazon statement credits and promotions.
• Delta Air Lines – The airline’s co-brand partnership with AMEX is among the company’s most important, offering SkyMiles-earning cards across several tiers. Perks typically include free checked bags, priority boarding and lounge access on premium cards.