VMLY&R has tapped two executives to handle the Coca-Cola Company accounts. Stephanie DeCelles has been promoted to global client lead and Chase Cornett is named global chief strategy officer.

Both hires are joining OpenX from WPP, the agency created to service the Coca-Cola company after being named its global marketing network partner in November 2021. The unit handles creative, media, social, data, tech and commerce.

VMLY&R is a WPP company.

Previously, DeCelles was executive director of VMLY&R Kansas City, one of the flagship global offices in the network. She remains in that office, reporting to Eric Campbell, global president, VMLY&R. Her account experience is sizable, having led brands such as Intel, Gatorade and Danone.

Cornett is a more recent addition to the VMLY&R staff, joining last month. He is also based in Kansas City. His previous brand experience includes Gatorade, Tropicana and Disney Stores. Prior to this, he led the global strategy efforts for Team Intel. Cornett joined the agency from FCB Chicago.

Global CEO Jon Cook said: “Stephanie and Chase are a powerhouse duo known for bringing strategic focus, collaborative spirit, and proven passion for breakthrough and innovative work for clients. Their depth of understanding when it comes to client needs is clear when you look at their record of delivering growth for global brands. They are an unbeatable choice to lead across our partnership with The Coca-Cola Company and wider WPP OpenX team.”