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Marketing shapes the way we experience brands, and Black executives are leading the charge at some of the world’s most influential companies. From driving cultural relevance to shaping billion-dollar advertising strategies, these 20 Black Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) are setting the standard for innovation, growth, and impact. Representing industries ranging from fashion and finance to tech and entertainment, their leadership is redefining what it means to connect with consumers in an authentic and purpose-driven way. Meet the Black CMOs you should know—trailblazers whose work is transforming the marketing landscape.
Elizabeth is responsible for elevating engagement across McDonald’s 13,000 restaurants, in the United States, of which 95 percent are owned and operated by independent business owners. She also partners with McDonald’s franchises through the Operator’s National Advertising Fund, executing a $1 billion marketing budget.
Kenny leads the brand’s global marketing strategies to build its denim leadership and cultural relevance. He combines heritage with innovation to grow market share and connect with customers worldwide.
Esi oversees one of the world’s largest advertising budgets and leads purpose-driven campaigns across major beauty and personal care brands. She has driven growth for iconic brands like Dove and TRESemmé while championing diversity initiatives such as the CROWN Coalition to promote beauty inclusivity and combat hair discrimination.
Sherri brings more than 25 years of deep expertise in the restaurant industry and a proven track record of delivering innovation and sales growth across restaurant brands.
Will leads a team of 154 and is responsible for managing all domestic and international marketing functions and the integration and growth planning for PetSmart Charities into connected company outreach.
Dara oversees the company’s worldwide marketing, brand and creative, digital eCommerce, communications, global demand generation, and education business teams.
Bozoma is a distinguished marketing executive and entrepreneur who has held leadership roles at companies such as Netflix, Uber, and Apple Music. She has been inducted into the American Marketing Association Hall of Fame and the American Advertising Federation Hall of Achievement, which recognize her significant contributions to the field.
Melissa oversees the day-to-day operations of marketing teams, including marketing integration and direct response, digital content, and advertising and promotions. She also spearheads internal corporate employee initiatives and executive communication.
Melissa oversees the day-to-day operations of marketing teams, including marketing integration and direct response, digital content, and advertising and promotions. She also spearheads internal corporate employee initiatives and executive communication.
Sherina shapes customer-centric marketing strategies, building trust and fostering meaningful connections in the insurance sector.
Frank leads Visa’s global marketing efforts, driving strategies that amplify the company’s purpose and support its business goals worldwide. He oversees all aspects of marketing, including consumer, B2B, and client initiatives, spanning brand management, data and insights, digital platforms, content, and sponsorships.
Remi drives the company’s brand vision, marketing strategy, and purpose-driven initiatives. She oversees marketing strategy, consumer insights, analytics, communications, and advertising, including leadership of the in-house agency Ninety6.
Sadé oversees the brand’s integrated marketing, customer success, branded content, and communications, as well as TIME’s impact division.
Paul is responsible for the design, execution, and assessment of marketing and communications strategies and plans that build Questrom’s global visibility and brand reputation in support of the Business School’s strategic goals.
Chris oversees 20 communications, consulting, and public affairs firms within Omnicom. In his role, he is focused on talent, innovation and cross-agency collaboration to drive growth.
Courtney oversees all aspects of Kickstarter’s marketing strategy, including product marketing, creative, communications, content, social, experiential, partnerships, and sponsorships.
DeLu leads marketing and inside sales to support the company’s growth and transformation vision. He focuses on building a data-driven, customer-focused organization, fostering key partnerships, driving subscriber growth, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.
Channing is responsible for growing the brand in the United States and abroad by overseeing marketing communications functions, such as advertising, public relations, and digital marketing.
Arthur is responsible for leading all portfolios within the industrial products, food and agriculture, fertilizers and regional sales segments. He also oversees customer engagement, short line and regional railroads, business development and TRANSFLO services.
Ramon oversees brand and marketing strategies, advertising, creative services, social media, and corporate communications to uphold and share the company’s ‘On Your Side’ promise. He focuses on leveraging data, understanding evolving consumer needs, and equipping brokers and agents with tools to build trust and meaningful client relationships, earning recognition as a 2023 Adweek Brand Genius.
