The WARC Podcast

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Mansfield, former VP of Global Media at Unilever, and Gerry D’Angelo, former VP of Global Media at Procter & Gamble, delve into the shifting landscape of media effectiveness. They tackle the evolving perception of paid media from a cost to a strategic investment, the challenges of measuring effectiveness, and the nuanced differences between traditional and D2C brands. They also address the complexities of attention measurement and the pressing need for standardized metrics to enhance trust in media strategies.

Paul Greenwood, Global Head of Research and Insights at We Are Social, shares his expertise on the evolving creator economy. He discusses key trends affecting influencer marketing, revealing a shift from text-based to visually-driven content. The podcast dives into the tension between relatable realism and extreme influence among creators. Greenwood highlights the need for authenticity in brand collaborations and the challenges of navigating a saturated landscape, where engagement and originality are essential for success.

George Hammer, Global Head of Luxury Marketing at Marriott International, oversees the branding for upscale names like St. Regis and Ritz-Carlton. He discusses the future of luxury travel, emphasizing the need for personalized experiences and innovative marketing strategies. Hammer delves into how AI can enhance creativity while maintaining authenticity. He also highlights the recovery of luxury travel post-pandemic and the importance of building emotional connections with younger, curious travelers.

Join Jane Wakely, Chief Consumer and Marketing Officer at PepsiCo, and Maggie Gross, Principal at Deloitte Digital, as they dive into the nuances of creative business transformation. They highlight the importance of leadership in fostering innovation and balancing profitability with societal impact. Discover practical steps Jane employs to drive meaningful change and explore how companies like Philips prioritize sustainability in e-commerce. The conversation also touches on using consumer insights effectively to enhance marketing strategies and promote growth.

As part of WARC Marketer's Toolkit, David Sandstrom - Chief Marketing Officer at payments giant Klarna - spoke to WARC's Anna Hamill about the role marketing has played in the company's growth story, including product, CX, media strategy and AI.Stay up-to-date with the latest marketing and advertising news with our free daily newsletter.

Aditya Kisore, WARC's Insight Director and a key contributor to the Marketers Toolkit report, joins David Tiltman to explore pivotal marketing trends for 2025. They discuss the current economic reset and its implications for marketers. The conversation highlights the decline of customer service and the need to understand atomised consumers. Kisore emphasizes the importance of customer insights and adapting strategies to meet individual needs, while also revisiting traditional marketing fundamentals for a proactive approach to brand value.

Mark Pollard, founder of Sweathead and author, joins Leandro De Los Santos, a strategic director with a digital marketing background, and Nanais Hernandez, a senior planner known for her practical strategies. They tackle the identity crisis faced by strategists in marketing, stressing the need for effective communication and structured approaches. The trio discusses the blend of data, culture, and creativity, emphasizing the importance of nurturing junior talent while adapting to evolving roles in the creative industry.

WARC's Alex Brownsell and James Mcdonald talk about the key takeaways from the latest Advertising Association/WARC Expenditure Report. Discussing why UK adspend is growing, which categories are doing the best, and how the UK compares to some international markets.Stay up-to-date with the latest marketing and advertising news with our free daily newsletter.

WARC's Ann Marie Kerwin talks to Ad Net Zero's US director John Osborn, and lead climate science and policy advisor Bill Wescott. Discussing the creative and scientific perspectives in coming up with realistic steps to a more sustainable way of doing business. To find out more about Ad Net Zero, click here. Stay up-to-date with the latest marketing and advertising news with our free daily newsletter.

WARC’s Anna Hamill and Sam Peña-Taylor discuss three of the biggest narratives shaping earnings season: how the US election and China’s economic downturn are impacting brands, and the road ahead for Starbucks.Stay up-to-date with the latest marketing and advertising news with our free daily newsletter.