Top 10: CMOs in Europe

To be a Chief Marketing Officer, you need innovation. A creative mind. A cutting edge approach that stands out from competition. In the age of AI and a rise in competition between industries, the role of a CMO is now more sought after by brands than ever – Taligence reported that 2025 saw 501 new CMOs appointed globally, marking a 61.6% increase.

So amongst the global competition, who is doing it best in Europe? This list showcases the marketers who have proven time and time again that their strategies are working, from Nina Bibby to Arnaud Belloni.

Find out which one takes the top spot for Marketing Chief.

10. Emily Prazer

Company: Formula 1
Revenue: US$3.87bn

Holding over 10 years of experience in global strategic commercial development, Emily has been instrumental in the expansion of Formula 1, particularly in the USA. 

Joining Formula 1 eight years ago as Senior Manager, Promoter and Business Relations, Emily worked her way through the leadership roles before being appointed Chief Commercial Officer in 2024.

Now in her current role, she is responsible for shaping F1’s future, embracing digital innovation and fan engagement. 

9. Lorenzo Bertelli

Company: Prada Group
Revenue: US$6.71bn

Since being appointed as Prada Group’s Chief Marketing Officer in 2024, Lorenzo has played a core role in modernising Prada’s distinguishable brand image. His work has focused on strengthening its digital presence and prioritising sustainable practices.

Alongside his CMO role, Lorenzo also oversees the leadership of the Versace brand – serving as Executive Chairman he shapes the brand’s storytelling and business strategies that are backed by a purpose.

8. Julia Goldin

Company: Lego
Revenue: US$12.9bn

Julia has established herself as an instrumental part of Lego’s leadership team, having joined nearly 12 years ago. Leading the creation of Lego products and experiences, Julia assists in inspiring and educating both children and families.

In her role as Chief Product and Marketing Officer, Julia oversees product development, brand campaigns, marketing, licensing and research just to name a few.

Before joining Lego, Julia also served as Revlon’s Global Chief Marketing Officer for three and a half years. Julia is a well established leader who understands the demographics of companies she serves.

7. Cristina Diezhandino 

Company: Diageo
Revenue: US$20.2bn

After leaving a lasting impression on Unilever, where she spent 11 years, three of those as Brand Director, Cristina joined Diageo in 2006 and worked her way up the ranks. 

She was appointed CMO in 2020 and has since been paramount in leading the company’s global marketing strategy and innovation.

With a strong commitment to sustainability, diversity and inclusivity, Cristina is a well respected leader globally and continues to bring creative excellence and brand storytelling to all of her work.

6. Nina Bibby 

Company: Barclays
Revenue: US$39.38bn

Despite joining Barclays as its Group Chief Marketing Officer in 2023, Nina was no stranger. Previously Barclays’ Global Chief Marketing Officer, Barclaycard between 2010-2013, she has developed three decades of leadership experience and 20 years of marketing experience.

Nina served as O2’s Chief Marketing Officer for eight years and oversaw branding, data and analytics and product management. 

Helping Barclays retain its position as a leading bank, Nina focuses on digital transformation and consumer insights.

5. Leandro Barreto 

Company: Unilever
Revenue: US$57.14bn

Few people bring dedication like Leandro – spending 23 years at Unilever and being promoted to Global CMO, Unilever and Beauty and Wellbeing earlier this year has equipped him for a strong career development.

His leadership style is backed by a commitment to creating brands that matter to consumers and their communities, emphasising the need for relevance, trust and cultural connection in marketing.

Leandro has consistently received global recognition for his work and dedication to the beauty and wellness industry. 

4. Paula Marconi

Company: PepsiCo Europe
Global revenue: US$93.93bn

Paula is a core example of someone who makes marketing fun. After nearly three decades of leadership roles, PepsiCo Europe’s CMO focuses on sustainable category growth that is profitable, innovative tactics and brand building.

Appointed to strengthen the brand’s position in a rapidly evolving market, she has assisted in several campaigns like ‘Now in a Solo Pack’ that have resonated with audiences across Europe.

Prior to joining PepsiCo in 2024, Paula has held positions at Kraft Heinz as CMO Continental Europe, Anheuser-Busch InBev in several roles and Unilever.

3. Ulrich Klenke

Company: Deutsche Telekom
Revenue: US$135bn

For the last 6 years, Ulrich has led Deutsche Telekom through commendable growth to the point of becoming the second most valuable telecom brand in the world.

With previous experience in leadership roles at Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen, Ulrich focuses on brand unification and customer satisfaction. These values have guided the enhancement of Deutsche Telekom’s brand value.

Dedicated to his role of CMO, Ulrich now plans to continue retaining Deutsche’s position as a global leader in the telecommunications industry.

2. Arnaud Belloni 

Company: Stellantis Europe
Revenue: US$173bn

After almost six years at Renault Group, Arnaud has returned to Stellantis – previously spending 16 years there in various roles like Global CMO. Returning to the automotive company as its CMO, Europe and CEO of FIAT, Abarth and Lancia, Arnaud is dedicated to strengthening the brand’s market position across Europe.

The marketing leader has received global recognition and accolades which represent the success of Arnaud’s work. Now under his leadership, Stellantis Europe will align brand, product and marketing efforts to provide enhanced performance rates from the FIAT, Abarth and Lancia brands.

1. Benjamin Braun 

Company: Samsung Europe
Global revenue: US$230.13bn

Throughout the seven years Benjamin has been CMO for Samsung Europe, he has consistently put creativity at the forefront of his projects.

Bringing extensive knowledge from roles in Audi and comparethemarket.com, Benjamin has built up over 20 years of leadership experience within marketing and sales.

Developing well respected campaigns like ‘Wildlife Watch’ combined with his leadership appointments showcase his capability to deliver sustainable growth in complex environments.

As Samsung Europe’s CMO, Benjamin encourages motivation within his team, inspiring others, as well as the brand, to reach their full potential. In a world increasingly driven by technology, Benjamin has embraced the digital transformation Samsung has had to quickly undergo to retain its position as a leader in the technology industry.