April 2023 President’s Note

Hello, 

It’s terrific to have spring in the air!  

 Thank you to everyone who participated in our member survey in March. It was designed to give each of you a voice, so we can evolve the association together in ways that will create the most value for everyone. It was rewarding to see how many people participated to help make our profession stronger. 
 
The survey revealed a strong call to action for a future-focused approach, with 97% of respondents rating the future of marketing as their top thought leadership topic, followed closely by emerging trends, and how technological advancements are impacting marketing.  
 
One way we’re actioning this need is with our new CMAfutureproof event on June 6: you may attend virtually or in-person. Our closing keynote will be Raja Rajamannar, the bestselling author of Quantum Marketing, WFA Global Marketer of the Year, and Mastercard’s Global CMO. 
 
Another way we’re delivering on your ask is through the strong thought leadership developed by our Councils. The latest article from our Martech Council is a good example.    
Sharing best practices in brand, measurement and investment across channels was another top theme from the survey. So, I’m pleased to share that we’re hosting a CMACafé on April 20 to discuss how brand values influence your media mix.  

The CMA’s advocacy work on behalf of our profession is key for members, with 90% rating privacy, competition and regulatory efforts as a top priority. I’m returning to Ottawa with our Public Affairs team next week to meet with Canada’s Privacy Commissioner. The CMA recently co-led with the Business Council of Canada, an op-ed in The Hill Times, signed by six leading associations, on why the new federal consumer privacy law is urgently needed and we continue to treat this file as a top priority.

These are a few of the ways I’m committed to ensuring the Association is as dynamic, diverse and engaging as the vital profession that it represents.  

And now for some exciting news for one of my colleagues. After five years with the CMA, Sartaj Sarkaria, our Chief Operating & Diversity Officer, is leaving to become the CEO of a national (non-marketing) association. It’s a terrific opportunity and I wish Sartaj much continued success. I also want to thank her for her many varied and important contributions to the CMA.  
 
As always, I welcome the opportunity to meet one-to-one. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to chat. 

For our members celebrating Ramadan, Easter or Passover this month, I hope you enjoy a memory-rich time with family and friends. 

Warm regards, 
Alison Simpson
President & CEO 

P.S. Please join me in welcoming our newest members to the CMA: Performance Art, LLC, Horizon Media, Akcelo Turtleford Credit Union Limited, DEC DATA INC, University of Calgary, Innovative Medicines Canada, Sparked Digital, Third Wunder, Asset Digital Communications, The City of Brampton, Community Living Toronto and BreezeMaxWeb (CA) Ltd.