Gemma Greaves to become the new CEO

Things are changing at The Marketing Society as Hugh Burkitt, CEO for the past 13 years, has decided to step down. He will be replaced by current global MD, Gemma Greaves.  

These changes, which form part of the Society’s global expansion strategy, will take effect from 1 January 2017.

Hugh will remain an integral part of the Society taking up the newly created position of global ambassador. He will work alongside Gemma helping to deliver the company’s five year global strategy as well as seeking out new opportunities and promoting the Society internationally.

 “Being CEO of the Marketing Society has been a great privilege and the past 13 years have flashed by, but after nearly a decade of working in partnership with Gemma, I think it is time to let her take full control of the global expansion that she has led so effectively. I will continue to work for the Society - with the specific task of developing our Excellence Awards internationally,” said Hugh.  

Gemma, who has always cited Hugh as her great mentor, is delighted to be following in his footsteps, “It’s been such an honour to work with Hugh over the past 10 years. His wisdom, depth of knowledge and sharp wit have constantly inspired me. He’s been an incredible leader and I’ve learned so much from him. His are huge shoes to fill, but I’m really excited about the opportunities ahead as we work towards our global ambition of having 10 global hubs by 2020.”
In her new role Gemma will continue focusing on the Society’s vision to become the leading global network for senior marketers, raising the profile of marketing within business and delivering on their purpose – to inspire bolder marketing leadership.

Chairman of the Society, and CEO MBA, Stephen Maher, said “I am so thrilled for Gemma. There is simply no better candidate for this role now that Hugh has decided to step down. The Society has been blessed with Gemma’s phenomenal energy, charm, commercial prowess and global vision for many years and she has been instrumental in turning the Society into today’s tour de force. She embodies the Society’s mantra of ‘inspiring bolder marketing leadership’ and we are very lucky she has agreed to take on this role and sprinkle more of her magic on the Society and the industry at large in these exciting years ahead.”