Fellows Interview with Paul Coxhill

We are delighted to bring you a Fellows Interview with Paul Coxhill President, LIONS Insight & Chief Operating Officer, LIONS.

The Marketing Society Fellowship is our highest and most prestigious accolade awarded to outstanding marketing leaders who have achieved significant success in the markets they’ve worked in and made an active contribution to The Marketing Society and our industry more broadly.

What is your golden rule?

Dance like no-one is watching.

Who has been your biggest influence?

My Dad. He passed in 2021 and, whilst he knew how much I loved and respected him, the positive impact he had on my life, outlook and mentality is greater now than it's ever been.

What is your most hated business expression?

"Touching base". Rather just say "let's talk". Even better, actually talk (and listen).

What’s the smartest business idea you’ve ever had?

More a theme than an idea. Saying "yes" as often as possible. In particular, to moving to South Africa with Barclays which led to immense professional and personal fulfilment. And to moving from a CMO to CEO by leading WARC for 5 years, including launching several new business lines as part of doubling revenue.

Which leader do you admire most and why?

Nelson Mandela. Living in South Africa for 3 years made me appreciate all the more the sacrifice, clarity of purpose and humility of one of the world's greatest ever leaders.

What keeps you up at night as a marketing leader?

The lack of self-confidence in marketers. At a time where investors, board members and other stakeholders appreciate the value of intangible assets more than ever (take Uber, airbnb etc), this should be a golden age for marketing to celebrate, demonstrate and lead brand growth. Yet, too often, it's not.

Why is being part of The Marketing Society important for your career?

The Marketing Society has been the beacon on the hill for much of my career - an organisation that has represented, championed and celebrated the marketing community in the UK and beyond. The learning and networking opportunities it has brought to me have been fundamental to my growth and that of my teams and business.

Why does marketing matter to you?

Because it is the driving force behind connecting market and customer needs to what the business then plans, actions and communicates. At it's best, marketing can be the conductor of the organisational orchestra.

What does the word impact mean to you when it comes to marketing?

People, planet and business having better outcomes than would have otherwise happened.

Tell us something that’s not on your CV

My weekly fitness non-negotiable is boxing every Friday.

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Published on 12 February 2025