Established by EMC, the International Day of Marketing recognizes and celebrates the strategic role of marketing in driving business growth, innovation and societal impact worldwide.

Featuring some of Europe's most influential Chief Marketing Officers , it is designed for the wider marketing community – from experienced professionals to those aspiring to build a career in marketing. It offers a rare opportunity to gain perspective, inspiration and practical insight from the leaders shaping the future of the profession.

The program will bring together marketing leaders and industry experts from across Europe to explore the defining trends for 2026 and beyond, while celebrating excellence at the highest level.

As Ralf Strauss, Chairman of EMC , noted: “Marketing today stands at a defining moment. The jury is still out there what the ongoing societal, behavioral and technological changes would mean for the role of the CMO. Thus The International Day of Marketing is not only a celebration of our profession, but also a call to lead – with responsibility, innovation and measurable impact. With The Best in Marketing 2026, we are bringing together Europe's leading voices to shape what comes next.”

A key highlight of the event will be the announcement of the EMC Lifetime Achievement Award 2026 , honoring an individual whose contribution has had a lasting impact on the global marketing community. The award reflects international collaboration, with votes gathered from marketing confederations across Europe, Asia and Africa.

The agenda will also feature insights from EMC's flagship annual research, Marketing Agenda 2026 , presented by Ralf Strauss. The research outlines the most critical priorities for marketing leaders, the actions required to achieve sustainable growth, and the key pitfalls organizations should avoid in an increasingly complex environment.

The event will conclude with a panel discussion featuring:

• Laurence Herbert , CMO at Puratos, European Marketer of the Year 2026 (Belgium), 

•  Sérgio Leal , former CMO at McDonald's Portugal, Top 10 European Marketer 2026 (Portugal),

• Vaida Jurkonienė , Head of Marketing and Communications at Telia, Top 10 European Marketer 2026 (Lithuania),

•  Cesar Romera , Vice President Marketing & Business Development, Spain & Portugal at Kyndryl, Top 10 European Marketer 2026 (Spain).

The panel will be moderated by Ralf Strauss , Chairman of the Board, European Marketing Confederation and will explore the future of marketing leadership, winning strategies for 2026, and the role of AI, creativity and performance in building competitive advantage.

Participation is free of charge and open to a global audience.

Event details:
Date: 27 May 2026
Format: Online
More information and registration: click here

Celebrate the International Day of Marketing

The International Day of Marketing is a global moment to recognize the ideas, people and impact that shape the marketing profession every day. It is an opportunity not only to celebrate achievements, but also to reflect on the evolving role of marketing in business and society – and to inspire future talent.

Martin Huisman , CEO of the European Marketing Confederation, said:
“With the International Day of Marketing, we aim to highlight the true value of marketing – as a driver of business growth, innovation and meaningful connection with society. It is a moment to recognize the impact our profession creates every day and to inspire greater ambition, responsibility and pride across the global marketing community.”

EMC invites marketing professionals, organizations and communities around the world to mark the occasion in their own way – from sharing insights and personal stories on social media to organizing team discussions, local meetups or educational initiatives. Every initiative, large or small, contributes to strengthening and celebrating the marketing profession globally.

For more information about the International Day of Marketing, including visual assets and ways to get involved, please visit: click here