My first day as President and CEO

Hello,

Today marks my first day as President and CEO of the CMA and I’m excited to be here.

The CMA has a strong foundation to build on. I will seize every opportunity to champion marketing’s strategic role as a key driver of business, to strengthen the regulatory climate for business success, and to help marketers develop professionally and build their networks.

My immediate focus is to immerse myself in all aspects of the Association, to listen and learn. To that end, I had the pleasure of meeting most of our Council Chairs at their biannual gathering last week and speaking with many members at the CMA Awards Gala, where more than 150 trophies were presented. It was terrific to celebrate our profession in person again!

Now that I’ve officially started, I will attend upcoming Council and Committee meetings and professional development sessions, and meet individually with each of our Board Directors. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you as well. Understanding how the CMA can help further your objectives is important input as I finalize the Association’s strategic plan. Please reach out  if you’re open to a meeting.

Before closing, I am pleased to share that Sartaj Sarkaria has been appointed to the permanent role of Chief Operating Officer, in recognition of the outstanding job she did serving in this capacity on an interim basis over the past several months. She will also continue in her role as Chief Diversity Officer. Congratulations Sartaj!

After building my career in marketing, and working in executive agency and brand roles, I’m thrilled to now lead the CMA at this pivotal time. My thanks to the Board for their vote of confidence and to CMA’s team of dedicated staff and outstanding volunteers for their partnership. We have a very bright future together.

Warm regards,

Alison Simpson
President and CEO