Global Day of Marketing to feature Europe’s top CMOs

The European Marketing Confederation (EMC) will host The Best in Marketing 2026 on 27 May 2026, bringing together senior marketing leaders from across Europe for an online event marking the International Day of Marketing.

The event will feature chief marketing officers, industry experts and marketing professionals discussing the trends shaping the profession in 2026 and beyond. Participation is free and open to a global audience.

EMC highlights marketing leadership

Established by EMC, the International Day of Marketing aims to recognise the role of marketing in business growth, innovation and societal impact. The online programme is designed for both experienced marketers and those considering a career in the industry.

Ralf Strauss, Chairman, European Marketing Confederation: “Marketing today stands at a defining moment. The jury is still out there what the ongoing societal, behavorial and technological changes would mean for the role of the CMO. Thus The International Day of Marketing is not only a celebration of our profession, but also a call to lead – with responsibility, innovation and measurable impact. With The Best in Marketing 2026, we are bringing together Europe’s leading voices to shape what comes next.”

A central part of the programme will be the announcement of the EMC Lifetime Achievement Award 2026, recognising an individual whose work has had a lasting impact on the global marketing industry. The recipient is selected through votes from marketing confederations across Europe, Asia and Africa.

Research to explore priorities for 2026

The event agenda also includes findings from EMC’s annual Marketing Agenda 2026 research, presented by Ralf Strauss. The report examines priorities for marketing leaders, strategies for sustainable growth and challenges organisations are expected to face in an increasingly complex market environment.

The closing panel discussion will focus on marketing leadership, artificial intelligence, creativity and performance-driven strategies.

European CMOs join closing panel

Panel participants include Laurence Herbert, European Marketer of the Year 2026 from Belgium; Sérgio Leal, recognised among the Top 10 European Marketers 2026 from Portugal; Vaida Jurkonienė, named among the Top 10 European Marketers 2026 from Lithuania; and Cesar Romera, also included in the Top 10 European Marketers 2026 list.

The session will be moderated by Ralf Strauss.

Industry invited to mark occasion

EMC is encouraging marketing professionals, organisations and communities worldwide to participate in the International Day of Marketing through local initiatives, social media discussions and educational activities.

Martin Huisman: “With the International Day of Marketing, we aim to highlight the true value of marketing – as a driver of business growth, innovation and meaningful connection with society. It is a moment to recognise the impact our profession creates every day and to inspire greater ambition, responsibility and pride across the global marketing community.”

www.internationaldayofmarketing.com

www.emc.be

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