Zsófia Bánhegyi crowned as the European Marketer of the Year 2025
22 May 2025
The European Marketing Confederation has unanimously selected the winner of the European Marketer of the Year 2025, crowning Zsófia Bánhegyi, Chief Commercial Officer of Szerencsejáték Zrt, from Hungary, at a MII Award ceremony held in Dublin. This award recognizes the best marketers in Europe and their crucial contribution to our businesses, the European economy, and society.
Each marketing association in Europe put forward its National Marketing Champions, who underwent an initial screening process. After the first round of the formal selection, eight finalists emerged—each representing the very best of European marketing talent. From this distinguished group, Zsófia Bánhegyi undoubtedly stands out and has proven herself deserving of the title. The second and third places went to Rafael Fernandez (Spain) and Giuseppe Fiordispina (Germany), respectively.
Zsófia Bánhegyi added: “I’m deeply honoured to receive this award. Today, the role of senior marketers is more vital than ever — bringing the voice of the consumer into the boardroom, guiding and inspiring our businesses within their operating environments, and harnessing the power of our brands and storytelling to positively shape society.”
Our deepest gratitude goes to the independent, professional jury who undertook the significant task of interviewing and evaluating each shortlisted candidate, ensuring the integrity and consistency of the process.
Dr. Ralf Strauss, EMC Chairman, stated: “The underlying purpose of organizing this event is clear: marketing is a vital and constantly evolving profession across all economies. By showcasing top marketing leaders, EMC aims to inspire the next generation of marketers, highlighting the dynamic career paths available and encouraging young professionals to pursue their ambitions with confidence.”
“The competition was incredibly fierce, as each candidate had already distinguished themselves as a winner in their own country. However, the jury reached a unanimous decision in selecting Zsófia Bánhegyi, impressed by her exceptional leadership qualities, her substantial contributions to the marketing profession, and the remarkable business achievements that showcased her marketing expertise,” said Chairman of the Jury, Martin Huisman.
Among the Top 50 most successful marketing leaders, Zsófia was also awarded the Hungarian CMO of the Year 2024 title, based on the votes of a 22-member jury. Zsófia is the first person in Hungary to receive this recognition as the marketing leader of two different large corporations from different sectors, Deutche Telekom affiliate, Magyar Telekom and Szerencsejáték Zrt., the Hungarian National Lottery Company.
Zsófia Bánhegyi: A Marketing Visionary and Inspirational Business Leader
Zsófia Bánhegyi is a leading figure in Hungary’s marketing landscape, bringing 24 years of experience in marketing and communications at top multinational and Hungarian corporations. A senior executive for 15 years, she currently serves as Chief Commercial Officer at Szerencsejáték Zrt., where she oversees the country’s largest retail network and a customer base of five million.
Recognized as one of the “Brand Heavies” by SBC Magazine, Zsófia is a driving force in business leadership. Her contributions to the field are wide-ranging, including her instrumental role in initiating and leading the creation of Hungary’s first Marketing Trendbook 2023/2024, a benchmark publication in the industry.
Beyond her professional achievements, Zsófia has demonstrated a deep commitment to social causes. For over 15 years, she has actively supported issues related to people with disabilities, fostering awareness and promoting inclusion through her work and public engagement. An influential and inspirational leader, Zsófia promotes responsible and ethical marketing practices, especially within the gambling industry, where she encourages progressive and socially conscious approaches.
Inspirational platform in Europe
EMC is proud to organize this high-quality competition every year seeking to recognise the very best marketers in Europe and the critical contribution they make to our companies, to the European economy, and to our society. This competition across its twelve member countries provide an inspirational platform in Europe to recognise and reward the outstanding contribution made to business by the region’s top marketing professional.
Zsófia’s journey exemplifies strategic business acumen and ethical leadership, continuing to shape the marketing landscape, drive business success, and foster a more inclusive and equal society.