Dame Carolyn McCall DBE Appointed as President of The Marketing Society

The Marketing Society welcomes ITV's CEO as its new President, marking a significant milestone in its 65-year history.

The Marketing Society is delighted to announce the appointment of Dame Carolyn McCall DBE as its new President, effective January 2025. This appointment comes at an exceptional time for the Society, which has achieved record membership numbers and continues to expand its international presence.

Dame Carolyn, who currently serves as CEO of ITV, brings invaluable leadership experience from her distinguished career across media, aviation, and broadcasting. Her impressive track record includes transformative leadership roles at Guardian Media Group, easyJet, and ITV, making her uniquely qualified to guide The Marketing Society into its next chapter.

As the first CEO to take on the role of President in many years, Dame Carolyn's appointment underscores the increasing strategic importance of marketing in driving business success. Her commitment to supporting and championing the marketing profession at this level of business leadership demonstrates the vital role marketing plays in building successful businesses and brands.

The Marketing Society has recently focused on strengthening the connection between CEOs and marketers through successful events and thought leadership initiatives, featuring conversations with prominent business leaders.

Sophie Devonshire, CEO of The Marketing Society, highlighted the significance of the appointment: "Having a leader of Dame Carolyn's calibre, who has successfully led multiple complex organisations and recognises and champions the power of marketing is incredibly significant. Her appointment not only elevates the marketing profession but also helps take our message to a broader business audience." Dame Carolyn succeeds Syl Saller CBE, who served as President for eight years and previously held the position of Chief Innovation and Marketing Officer at Diageo. Reflecting on the transition, Syl Saller noted: "It has been a privilege to serve as President of The Marketing Society and I could not be passing the baton to a more exceptional leader. The Society goes from strength to strength and I'm thrilled Carolyn has decided to take up this important role."