Marketer of the Future - cutting through the noise

Marketing is noisier than ever. With AI advances, changing consumer habits, and countless digital channels to manage, many marketers feel overwhelmed. 

At Oxford, we partnered with the WFA and spoke to CMOs and growth leaders worldwide to identify what truly sets the best apart right now. The most effective marketers aren't chasing trends, they're focusing on what works.

The Five Traits of High-Performing Marketing Teams

1. Master the Fundamentals

Strategy, brand, and creative excellence remain essential. Top marketers keep these foundations strong while adapting them to an AI-driven world.

"We need our marketers to relearn the fundamentals—brands, consumer insights, creativity, reach and frequency." —Lex Bradshaw-Zanger, L'Oréal

2. Lead Growth Strategically

The best marketers make bold, insight-driven decisions. They maintain long-term vision despite short-term pressures.

"Everyone wants 'strategy' in their title. Few have the mindset to make it real." —OxfordSM analysis

3. Break Down Silos

When departments don't communicate, the brand suffers. Future-ready marketers align teams around shared goals and create cohesive customer experiences.

"If sales and marketing aren't aligned, consumers feel it. You can't build a brand if you can't deliver on it." —Edward Bell, GM, Cathay Pacific

4. Partner with Technology

AI won't replace marketers, but those who use it wisely will outperform those who don't. Successful teams know what to automate and when to apply human judgment.

"Technology is an enabler, not a solution. The shift is teaching marketers to work alongside AI." —David Jones, Founder, Brandtech Group

5. Influence at the Executive Level

Top marketers drive company-wide transformation by translating marketing impact into business terms—focusing on growth, value, and ROI rather than just metrics.

"Stop talking about engagement. Start talking about revenue." —Sir John Hegarty

So what does it mean for you?

At Oxford, we believe good growth happens when people, planet, and profit advance together. We help marketing teams step back, see the bigger picture, and simplify their approach.

Whether you're adopting new technology, building capabilities, or maintaining momentum, we'll help you focus on what matters most.

Get your Marketer of the Future roadmap