Kate Shone
Vice President, Communications and Community Engagement
Professional Overview
Kate Shone is an accomplished communications and public relations executive with over 15 years of experience in the luxury goods and beauty industries. She currently serves as the Vice President of Communications and Community Engagement at Kering, a world-leading luxury group, where she oversees the development and implementation of strategic communications initiatives to elevate the company's brand and support its community engagement efforts. Shone is also the President of Second House Consulting, a boutique agency she founded to provide strategic communications and public relations services to clients in the luxury and lifestyle sectors.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As Vice President of Communications and Community Engagement at Kering, Shone is responsible for developing and executing integrated communications strategies to support the company's global operations and diverse portfolio of luxury brands, including Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga. In this role, she has spearheaded high-profile campaigns and initiatives that have contributed to increased brand awareness, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and strengthened Kering's position as a leader in sustainable luxury. Shone also leads the company's community outreach efforts, collaborating with local partners to drive positive social and environmental impact.
Career Progression
Prior to joining Kering, Shone held senior-level public relations and communications roles at leading luxury and beauty brands, including CHANEL, Ralph Lauren Fragrances, and Lancôme. At CHANEL, she served as the Vice President and Head of Public Relations and Social Media Initiatives for the brand's Fragrance & Beauty division, where she was instrumental in developing innovative digital and influencer marketing strategies that helped to expand the brand's global reach and engagement. Earlier in her career, Shone honed her skills in public relations and communications at Ralph Lauren Fragrances and Lancôme, where she demonstrated a strong track record of driving brand visibility, media relations, and stakeholder engagement.
Academic Background
Shone holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she graduated with honors.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic communications and public relations
- Brand management and positioning
- Digital and social media marketing
- Stakeholder engagement and community outreach
- Luxury and beauty industry expertise
- Project management and team leadership
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Shone has been recognized for her ability to develop and execute impactful communications strategies that drive business growth and enhance brand reputation. At CHANEL, she spearheaded a highly successful social media initiative that resulted in a significant increase in the brand's online engagement and a stronger connection with its target audience. At Kering, Shone has been instrumental in elevating the company's sustainability efforts and fostering deeper connections with its stakeholders through innovative community engagement programs.
Conclusion
With her extensive experience, strategic acumen, and proven track record of success, Kate Shone is a highly respected communications and public relations leader in the luxury goods and beauty industries. In her current role at Kering, she continues to drive meaningful impact, strengthening the company's brand reputation and amplifying its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
