Kernel announces changes in the management of communications and government relations. Effective January 12, Elena Plakhova has been appointed Director of Communications and Government Relations at Kernel.
Elena brings over 20 years of experience in strategic communications, reputation management, and crisis management. Throughout her career, she has led dozens of projects focused on brand creation and transformation, as well as supporting companies through reputational crises. She has twice been recognized as Ukraine's Best PR Director and, in 2024, was named among the top 10 most influential PR leaders in Europe. Elena is also a recipient of the Grand Prix Effie Ukraine and the Best of the Best Effie Awards Europe. Over the past six years, she was responsible for reputation and marketing at Nova Poshta and the NOVA Group.
At Kernel, Elena's focus will be on transitioning to a structured, long-term communications and reputation management model that directly supports the company's business strategy, investment attractiveness, and international presence. Key priorities include developing a unified messaging architecture, strengthening Kernel's role in the Ukrainian and international public discourse, and building predictable, transparent engagement with key stakeholders.
"Elena joins us at a time when strategic and consistent communications are critical to achieving the company's business objectives. Her mandate is to strengthen the coherence and recognizability of Kernel's voice and to clearly articulate the company's role both in Ukraine and internationally," said Yevhen Osypov, CEO of Kernel.
Kateryna Spivakova has decided to continue her professional journey outside the company, focusing on international, cross-sectoral, and expert projects in the fields of economic diplomacy, business community development, and building global trust in Ukraine. Kernel sincerely thanks Kateryna for her contribution, professionalism, and leadership.