Marketing graduates looking for a fast track to the top might want to look away now, with new research revealing it takes most professionals nearly 20 years to reach the coveted chief marketing officer role.
By analysing hundreds of LinkedIn profiles, including marketers at global brands such as Bentley Motors, Microsoft, and Gymshark, a new study from Avid Panda identifies key trends in the journey to marketing leadership.
The study found that, on average, it takes 18.6 years for professionals to rise to the position of CMO. The most common time frame falls around 20 years, with the fastest-rising individuals achieving the role in 14 years or less, while those in the upper quartile often take 23 years or more.
Certain companies stand out for offering a faster track to the top. Global fitness apparel brand Gymshark is a notable example, with its CMO Noel Mack, taking just 7 years to secure the role after graduating.
Similarly, other rising industries like gaming (for instance Adthena) and sustainability-focused brands have shown quicker career progressions, with CMOs earning their title within 10 years or less.
However, CMOs in brands like Bentley Motors and McLaren Automotive tend to take 20+ years to get to the top, while in retail and consumers goods it takes an average of 15 to18 years, aligned with steady career progression in established sectors.
An Avid Panda spokesperson said: “For most marketers, the role of CMO represents the pinnacle of their career aspirations, much like partnership does for lawyers.
“As the top position within a marketing team, the CMO combines strategic leadership, creative vision, and significant influence over a company’s brand and growth.
“While lawyers typically spend an average of ten years working towards partnership, marketers face a longer journey. This extended timeline reflects the diverse skill set and leadership experience required to reach this level.”
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