How to become a CMO
Becoming a chief marketing officer (CMO) requires years of dedication, strategic career growth, and continuous learning. It begins with meeting the foundational education requirements and advancing through various marketing roles. Read on to discover more about CMOs and how to get started on your path to becoming one.
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What does a CMO do?
CMOs leverage their marketing and business acumen to oversee a company's marketing strategy. As a senior executive, the responsibilities of a CMO include managing a company's brand, analyzing market trends, and driving business growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for top executives like CMOs was $103,840 in 2023.
Steps to become a CMO
Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree
A degree in marketing is the most common pathway for CMOs. Other degrees in business, communications, or more specialized fields may also be appropriate, especially when paired with a post-graduate credential in marketing or another appropriate field.
Step 2: Gain marketing experience
If you plan to become a marketing leader, you'll need to build substantial hands-on experience. Start in entry-level positions such as marketing assistant or coordinator and steadily work your way up the ladder. Try to focus on building a diverse skill set and take on increasing levels of responsibility.
Step 3: Consider a master's degree
Most companies prefer (or even require) their CMO to have a master's degree. These high-level executives must possess not only advanced marketing expertise but also strong leadership and business acumen.
To meet these demands, many aspiring CMOs choose to pursue a master's degree at some point in their career. Master's degrees in marketing and MBAs with a specialization in marketing are popular choices.
Step 4: Build leadership and management skills
As your career advances, look for positions that give you a chance to build and display your leadership abilities. At first, you might take on roles where you lead a small team — perhaps a marketing or customer relations manager. From there, you could progress into more senior positions like director or VP of marketing.
Get started on edX
Ready to take the next step on your path to becoming CMO? Browse edX's business management courses to add to your skill set and résumé.