Women Shaping The Marketing World

“Power is not given to you. You have to take it” - Beyonce?

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we honour the remarkable women who are shaping the marketing industry through innovation, leadership and inclusivity.?

The Role of Women in Marketing?

Women have played a pivotal role in the evolution of marketing, from early pioneers in advertising to today’s digital innovators. Currently, women make up over 60% of the marketing workforce1, yet representation in leadership roles continues to grow. This progress is a testament to the talent and perseverance of female leaders driving change in the industry. Women have not only influenced consumer behaviour and brand storytelling but have also pioneered data-driven strategies, social media engagement, and content marketing innovations. Their ability to blend creativity with analytical insights has propelled the industry forward, ensuring brands remain relevant and relatable. Furthermore, women have been instrumental in championing ethical marketing practices and fostering inclusive brand messaging that resonates with diverse audiences. As the landscape continues to evolve, the contributions of female marketers will remain vital in shaping the future of the industry.

Interview with our founder of Excelerate Marketing, Emma Reeves

As we celebrate the impact of women in marketing, we sat down with Emma Reeves, founder of Excelerate Marketing, to discuss her journey, challenges, and insights on female leadership in the industry.

Breaking into Marketing & Leadership

Q. Can you share your journey into marketing and the key moments that shaped your leadership style?

1. My marketing journey began during university when I worked with various brands in promotional roles. Through those experiences, I developed skills in team leadership, organisation, and problem-solving. As my career evolved, I transitioned from on-the-ground promotional work to coordinating teams, eventually leading and managing operations. These early roles shaped my leadership style, teaching me the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and strategic thinking.

Challenges & Overcoming Bias

Q. What challenges have you faced as a woman in marketing, and how have you overcome them?

1. As a woman in marketing, I’ve noticed that we often approach problem-solving differently from men, bringing a unique perspective to the industry. One challenge I’ve faced is the perception that success comes solely from external support rather than individual capability. I’ve had to push back against this notion by proving that success isn’t just about who you know but about the value you bring. At Excelerate Marketing, our long-term client relationships—many lasting three years or more—are a testament to the expertise and results we deliver. Success, for me, has always been about vision, hard work, and resilience, not just referrals or lucky breaks.

The Impact of Female Leadership

Q. How has female leadership at Excelerate Marketing contributed to the company's success and innovation?

1. I believe my leadership style is rooted in empathy, flexibility, and a deep understanding of people. When I started Excelerate Marketing, we were fully remote, and over time, we evolved into a hybrid model. This adaptability has been key to our success. I’ve built a culture where hard work, mutual respect, and fulfillment drive everything we do. I know from personal experience that feeling valued and rewarded in a role leads to better performance, so I’ve made it a priority to create that environment for my team.

Why Women Excel in Marketing Leadership

Q. What qualities do you think make women particularly effective in leading marketing initiatives?

1. I think strong communication skills, the ability to navigate organisational priorities, and emotional intelligence are what make women particularly effective in marketing leadership. Being able to balance a strategic vision with an understanding of broader business challenges is crucial. I’ve learned that vocalising ideas is important, but so is appreciating different priorities within an organisation. Marketing doesn’t operate in a silo—it needs to align with the overall business strategy to truly make an impact.

Mentorship & Advice for Aspiring Women in Marketing

Q. How do you mentor or support aspiring women in the industry, and what advice would you give them?

1. I’m passionate about supporting women—not just in marketing, but across all industries. While many of my industry collaborators are male, I’ve been involved in women-focused networking groups and initiatives. More than anything, I love helping female clients build their personal brands and develop strategic marketing approaches that elevate their businesses. At Excelerate Marketing, we focus on strong client relationships, making sure they feel supported every step of the way. My biggest piece of advice for women in business is to build real relationships, focus on delivering value, and always back yourself—you belong in the room.

Marketing for a Better Future

Women are redefining marketing by championing inclusivity and purpose-driven strategies. From promoting diverse representation to leading ethical marketing initiatives, female marketers are shaping a more authentic and equitable industry.

Marketing today is about more than selling—it’s about storytelling, corporate social responsibility, and genuine engagement with diverse audiences. Brands like Nike and Dove are bringing in diverse creators to add fresh perspectives, making inclusivity more than just a visual representation—it’s about true authenticity.

How You Can Support Women in Marketing

• Celebrate and recognise the achievements of women in your organisation.
• Advocate for mentorship and leadership opportunities.
• Support women-led marketing initiatives and businesses.

This International Women’s Day, let’s uplift and empower the women making a difference in marketing. Who inspires you? Join the conversation and celebrate the incredible women in our industry.

1. https://marketinghire.com/salary-hiring-research-trends/study-finds-women-well-represented-lack-of-diversity-in-advertising-marketing-profession