More than a vendor: What CMOs want from agency design partners today

CMOs are under pressure to deliver bold brand differentiation, customer-centric innovation, and measurable business impact at breakneck speed. To meet these demands, they’re not just hiring agencies, they’re really looking for strategic design partners who can think beyond execution and bring creative thinking to the center of business decision-making.

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This panel brings together seasoned CMOs to unpack what truly drives successful brand-agency relationships in 2025 and beyond. From the importance of cultural alignment and creative agility, to shared accountability, we'll explore the evolving criteria that CMOs use to evaluate, select, and sustain design partnerships. You will gain behind-the-scenes insights on how leading brands vet agencies, why some relationships flourish while others fizzle, and how agencies can move from “vendor” to “trusted advisor” status.

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Key Takeaways:

• The top qualities CMOs prioritize in design partners today
• Red flags that signal misalignment early in agency conversations
• How agencies can differentiate beyond the pitch deck
• Real-world stories of partnerships that worked — and why
• Insights on collaboration, creativity, and co-ownership in modern marketing

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