Each year, EMC honors an individual whose work has significantly shaped the marketing discipline, inspired generations of professionals and contributed to the evolution of marketing as a strategic driver of growth and long-term value. This year's selection reflects not only influence but enduring relevance in a rapidly changing world.

As Ralf Strauss, Chairman of EMC, commented , “Seth Godin is widely recognized as one of the most influential voices in modern marketing. Through his books, writing and thought leadership, he has consistently challenged conventional thinking and redefined how organizations create meaningful connections with their audiences. His work has empowered marketers to focus on trust, purpose and value creation – principles that are more relevant today than ever, and we feel privileged to recognize his lifetime contribution with this Award”

Seth Godin himself responded by thanking EMC and adding : “Marketing leadership isn't about hustle or hype or even advertising – it's the persistent commitment to doing work that matters for people who care. We have the tools to create value, and now each of us has the opportunity to choose to show up and lead.”

Previously, the EMC Lifetime Achievement Award has been presented to some of the most influential thinkers in marketing, including Philip Kotler (2023), Simon Sinek (2024), and Byron Sharp (2025), further underlining the significance of this recognition.

The selection process for the award involved nominations and voting across EMC's member associations throughout Europe. In 2026, the process was further expanded to include contributions from marketing confederations in Africa and Asia, reinforcing the global significance of the recognition.

The award will be officially presented during the International Day of Marketing on 27 May – a global initiative established by EMC to celebrate the impact, innovation and importance of marketing for business and society.

The award announcement will take place during EMC's flagship online event "The Best in Marketing 2026" . The event will bring together leading CMOs and marketing professionals to explore the future of marketing in 2026, share key insights from the EMC Marketing Agenda 2026 research, and discuss the priorities shaping the profession across Europe.

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).

Event details:
Date: 27 May 2026 3:00 PM CET
Format: Online
More information and registration: https://www.emc.be/activities/webinar-The-Best-in-Marketing-2026

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: https://internationaldayofmarketing.com/