Education

There is no single path to the C-suite. Some careers are carefully mapped. Others unfold through unexpected detours, bold risks, setbacks, mentors, and defining moments. In SMPS Road to Chief, a panel of accomplished Chief Marketing Officers shares the real stories behind their journeys to executive leadership in the AEC industry.

Through candid conversation and audience interaction, these leaders will reflect on the timing, pivots, and professional challenges that shaped their careers. From taking the scary assignment to navigating layoffs, relocations, career shifts, and organizational change, this session explores how resilience, business acumen, and strategic influence propel marketing leaders forward.

Panelists will also discuss the critical role of mentors, advocates, and sponsors, how to build credibility within the C-suite, and the leadership lessons they lean on most often. As industry forces such as private equity, organizational health, and evolving business models continue to reshape AEC firms, the conversation will address what it truly takes to future-proof your career and elevate marketing’s strategic impact.

Designed to be interactive, the session includes live audience polling and concludes with open Q&A, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with executives who have navigated the road to Chief.