The Marketing Architects Where Did All the CMOs Go?
Aug 12, 2025
Explore why only 40% of Fortune 500 marketing leaders hold the CMO title, and delve into recent research revealing a rise in CMO tenure. The conversation highlights the evolving challenges CMOs face today, from balancing short-term results with long-term brand strategies to the unique hurdles for first-time CMOs. Discover how creativity and bold marketing campaigns are vital for brand fame amidst fierce competition. Plus, gain insights into how personal passions can shape effective branding in education and sports.
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CMO Role Is Evolving, Not Dying
- Spencer Stuart found average CMO tenure rose to 4.3 years and many CMOs move upward.
- The CMO function persists even when companies rename roles to growth, customer, or communications leaders.
High Visibility Invites High Scrutiny
- Angela says CMOs face visible metrics and external shifts that invite intense scrutiny.
- Short tenures and pressure for quick results amplify the narrative that CMOs are failing.
Demand Creation Was A Rebrand For 'Brand'
- Elena recounts that the term 'demand creation' was coined to avoid saying 'brand' and has since been misapplied.
- She uses this to illustrate how marketers sometimes favor stories over data.
