Many marketing leaders are reflecting on a year shaped by constraint, complexity, and constant change.

Looking ahead to 2026, there is a renewed focus on the fundamentals. What skills really matter now? And how do we lead through change without losing creativity, judgment, or trust?

At CMOA, we take pride in celebrating the people who help others do better work. The leaders who share what they have learned, raise the bar, and make the industry stronger for everyone.

To recognize those individuals who have navigated this past year’s challenges with care, while continuing to advance the work that good marketing depends on, we are compiling a shortlist of CMOs and senior marketers to watch in the year ahead.

If while reading this you’ve already thought of a person or two, why not shout them out?

You have until 10 February 2026 to submit your nominations.

Who should you nominate?

We’re looking for CMOs and senior marketers who know their craft inside and out, and who are helping move the industry forward through how they think and lead.

That might be someone who:

  • Regularly takes the time to answer questions in the community
  • Shares informative or genuinely thought-provoking content on LinkedIn
  • Is a leader you work with who makes you proud to be in this profession

These are the people we want to recognize this year.

Once nominations close, we’ll carefully review each submission and reveal who has made the list. 

To make sure we hear from a broad range of voices, please share the survey with peers who should be part of the conversation.

Nominate today