Samarth I January saw over 40 new CMO appointments globally, with a growing number of first-timers taking leadership roles in a rapidly evolving marketing landscape.
The global marketing landscape is undergoing a shift as more than 40 companies appointed new Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) in January 2025. Notably, a significant number of these hires were first-time CMO appointees, reflecting the growing emphasis on fresh leadership in an industry marked by rapid technological and cultural change.
According to a partnership between Ad Age and executive search firm Taligence, these appointments span across global markets, with a focus on companies that have a significant presence in English-language regions. This shift signals a broader trend of companies looking to bring in innovative leaders who can navigate the complexities of today’s digital-first, consumer-centric world.
The surge in new CMO roles is further aligned with recent findings from McKinsey & Company, which revealed that 71% of consumers now expect personalized, consistent, and timely communication from brands. The role of the CMO, once primarily focused on brand management and communications, is increasingly pivoting towards a more data-driven, customer-centric strategy. This is reflected in the growing emphasis on marketing personalization, a trend underscored by the CMO Council’s latest survey, which found that companies are prioritizing personalized offers to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
As more companies appoint first-time CMOs, it’s clear that the demand for dynamic, forward-thinking leaders is greater than ever. These appointments may herald a wave of innovative approaches to marketing, as businesses look to meet evolving consumer expectations in a rapidly changing business environment.
