Summary
CMOs have made progress in strengthening relationships with CEOs, especially by demonstrating stronger financial understanding and tighter alignment with executive teams. However, that trust is no longer enough on its own. A new Boathouse study shows overall CEO confidence in CMOs has slipped to 43%, even as many marketers are seen as better collaborators and strategic partners. CEOs now expect CMOs to do more than manage campaigns or optimize marketing metrics. They want proof that marketing leadership directly drives enterprise-wide growth, not just channel performance. CMOs also face rising pressure around AI accountability and cross-functional impact. The gap between alignment and measurable growth performance has become the defining challenge for marketing leaders in 2026.
Marketing Dive
