Avon Products, Inc. announced the appointment of Chris Wermann as Chief Communications Officer, effective January 3, 2017. Wermann will be replacing Avon's current SVP, Corporate Relations, Cheryl Heinonen, who will be stepping down from the position.

Wermann's responsibilities will include Corporate and Internal Communications, Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability, and operational oversight of the Avon Foundation for Women. He will report to Sheri McCoy, Avon's Chief Executive Officer.

"I am delighted to have Chris join us as Chief Communications Officer," said McCoy. "As we move forward through this period of transition and continue delivering on our Transformation Plan, communicating effectively is more important than ever. With his strong leadership and impressive strategic communications experience, Chris will be an invaluable addition to our management team."

Wermann remarked, "I am very pleased to join the team of such an iconic, global brand during this exciting time. I look forward to working with Sheri and the rest of the management team to ensure Avon's strategic communications best supports the Company's business and financial objectives."

Wermann's experience in corporate affairs and communications includes leading the development of integrated internal and external communications strategies for several blue chip companies. Prior to joining Avon, Wermann served as group director of corporate affairs for Home Retail Group PLC, the UK's leading general merchandise digital retailer.

Previously, Wermann was European director of corporate affairs for Kellogg, where he was responsible for developing and leading the corporate affairs strategy for Europe.