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Salary Guide 2025

The New Chapter Talent Salary Guide has been compiled from information received from marketing professionals across Australia within our specialist industries, including FMCG and retail. We have compiled this information with our own insights and knowledge within the marketplace.


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By New Chapter Talent September 12, 2025
On Thursday 11 September , more than 90 marketers, founders, students, and industry leaders came together in Melbourne for The Future of Marketing panel event hosted by The Marketing Club AU/NZ . The evening explored what’s next for our industry across content, brand, AI, recruitment, education, strategy, and research , with insights from some of the brightest minds in marketing. We were proud to see Lucy Bolan, Director of New Chapter Talent , representing the recruitment and hiring perspective, joining an incredible line-up of speakers. Panel 1: Fresh Thinking in Marketing 🎙️ Ebony Tewierik – Senior Marketing Manager, KeepCup 🎙️ Ebony Coatsworth – Social Media Executive, Melbourne Social Co 🎙️ Sarah No – Director of Brand & Marketing, BlueRock 🎙️ Indianna Symons – Executive Podcast Producer, Lost in Sound Panel 2: The Future of Marketing Careers 🎙️ Lucy Bolan – Director, New Chapter Talent 🎙️ Catherine Toms – Founder, AI Growth Academy 🎙️ Daniel Rayne – Marketing Lecturer, RMIT University 🎙️ Casey Kudrenko – Strategic Client Partner, Ideally Together, both panels shared powerful perspectives on where marketing is heading and how individuals and teams can stay ahead of the curve. A Bubble Bath of Change When asked to describe the current state of the industry, Lucy summed it up in one memorable line: 👉 “A bubble bath of change!” That opening sentiment, along with those of the panellists, sparked a rich discussion about the pace of transformation and the opportunities it presents for marketers who are ready to adapt. Hiring Trends Under the Spotlight Lucy also highlighted the key shifts she’s seeing in marketing recruitment: AI & Upskilling – Employers want marketers who can embrace martech, improve efficiency, and use insights to drive personalisation. ROI Under Pressure – Marketers are under more scrutiny than ever to prove the commercial impact of their work. T-Shaped Marketers – Specialists with deep expertise and strong knowledge across the wider marketing mix (brand, SEO, content, performance, CRM) are highly sought after. Soft Skills Matter – Curiosity, bravery, and innovative thinking are becoming just as important as technical expertise. Key Takeaways from the Evening Across both panels, a number of consistent themes emerged—practical, actionable advice that every marketer can apply: AI is here to stay - embrace it Pair AI with a strong brand strategy to ensure consistency and authenticity Emotional intelligence matters - stay focused on the people you’re trying to connect with Networking is critical to the future of marketing Stay curious and keep learning Soft skills will set you apart in a competitive recruitment market Listen more - the best marketers pay attention before they act Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek clarity by asking questions Strive to be a T-shaped marketer with both deep expertise and broad knowledge Adaptability is key - be ready to pivot with change Find a mentor to help you grow and navigate your career Insights & Connection From the rise of AI and automation to the enduring importance of creativity and human connection, both panels left attendees with practical strategies to help future-proof their careers. And beyond the insights, the networking was just as valuable. With more than 90 attendees, the room buzzed with conversation, ideas, and new connections between marketers, students, founders, and hiring managers. Thank You A huge thank you to The Marketing Club AU/NZ for curating such a forward-thinking event, to Lost in Sound for partnering and supporting with their expertise in podcasting and content, and to BlueRock for generously hosting us in their Melbourne space. Events like these show just how powerful it is when the marketing community comes together to share ideas, collaborate, and imagine the future. At New Chapter Talent , we’re committed to helping marketers thrive through change, whether that’s taking the next step in their career or building future-ready teams. Lucy’s contribution to The Future of Marketing was part of that mission, and we’re excited to keep these conversations going.
By Lucy Bolan September 9, 2025
As the marketing job market begins to show signs of recovery in Australia and New Zealand, many professionals are brushing off their CVs and stepping back into the interview room after months—or even years—away. But here’s the challenge: knowing your experience inside-out doesn’t always mean you can clearly communicate it under pressure. At New Chapter Talent, we’ve noticed a recurring theme with marketers we support: the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result)—a framework many interviewers expect—is often misunderstood or underused. And when nerves or self-doubt creep in, it becomes even harder to tell your career story with confidence. Whether you’re a Marketing Manager, Digital Specialist, or Head of Brand, here’s how you can prepare and deliver STAR-powered interview answers that make you stand out. Why the STAR Technique Matters for Marketing Interviews The STAR technique helps structure your answers so hiring managers can quickly understand not just what you did , but how you did it and the measurable impact. Situation : Provide context—what was happening? Task : What were you responsible for? Action : What did you actually do? Result : What was the outcome, ideally with metrics? In marketing interviews, this framework is especially valuable. It allows you to highlight creativity, problem-solving, and business impact while avoiding rambling or getting stuck in unnecessary detail. 5 Practical Tips to Nail Your STAR Responses Here are some actionable steps we’ve been sharing with our marketing network: 1. Put Pen to Paper List your top three accomplishments from your last role. What was the mandate? How did you deliver it? What were the results? For example: “I was tasked with revitalising customer engagement. I led the rollout of a new CRM program, introducing segmentation and automation. As a result, email open rates increased by 25% and churn reduced by 12% within six months.” 2. Reflect on Challenges Think about three significant challenges you’ve faced in your career. How did you navigate them? Marketing roles often involve tight budgets, shifting consumer trends, or new tech adoption—these are great opportunities to showcase adaptability and resilience. 3. Show Stakeholder Influence Marketing isn’t just about campaigns—it’s about collaboration. Prepare an example where you influenced a senior stakeholder, brought a cross-functional team onside, or shifted a business mindset. This shows leadership and strategic influence beyond day-to-day delivery. 4. Practice Out Loud It might feel awkward at first, but practising your answers out loud will help you tighten your delivery. Aim to be clear, concise, and confident. Try recording yourself or running through answers with a recruiter, mentor, or trusted friend. 5. Ditch the Jargon Avoid buzzwords like “synergy,” “best-in-class,” or “cutting-edge.” Instead, talk about impact in real, relatable terms. Employers are far more impressed with results than with corporate clichés. Common Mistakes Marketers Make in Interviews Through countless interview coaching sessions, we’ve noticed a few pitfalls: Overloading on detail – STAR answers should be sharp and structured, not an essay. Focusing on tasks, not outcomes – Results are what count. Did you increase ROI? Drive engagement? Improve brand equity? Undervaluing soft skills – Influence, collaboration, and resilience are just as critical as campaign results. Not tailoring answers – Align your examples with the specific role and company. Final Thoughts Interviewing is a skill—and like any skill, it improves with preparation and practice. If it’s been a while since your last interview, don’t leave it to chance. Rehearse with a recruiter, mentor, or trusted colleague. Mock interviews can surface blind spots and help you sharpen your story. In a competitive marketing job market, mastering the STAR technique could be the difference between blending in and standing out. By reflecting on your achievements, practising delivery, and focusing on real impact, you’ll be ready to tell a compelling career story that resonates with employers. ✅ Looking for your next marketing role in Australia or New Zealand? At New Chapter Talent, we specialise in connecting top marketing talent with leading brands. Contact Lucy Ready to start your next chapter? Looking for a new role? Explore our current marketing jobs H iring top marketing talent? Get in touch ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn . New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Roles
By Lucy Bolan August 26, 2025
In the world of marketing recruitment , it’s not uncommon to hear senior professionals say: “It’s been years since I’ve had to formally interview; my last few roles all came via a tap on the shoulder.” And while that may sound like the dream scenario – being directly approached, skipping the panel interviews, and sliding straight into a new role – it can also be a dangerous shortcut. At New Chapter Talent, we’ve seen firsthand how skipping a formal marketing interview can lead to misalignment, frustration, and even short-lived appointments. The Allure of the “Tap on the Shoulder” For many senior marketers, opportunities often come through networks, reputation, or past colleagues. That “tap on the shoulder” can feel flattering – a recognition of your experience and track record. But here’s the risk: without a structured process, both sides miss the chance to properly test alignment. Recently, I spoke to a senior marketer three months into a new role. Their story was all too familiar: A few coffees with the GM Some warm, unstructured conversations An offer on the table No formal interview. No panel. No testing of values or expectations. The result? They’re now miserable. The role wasn’t what was promised; they’re being micromanaged, and the cultural alignment simply isn’t there. Why Interviews Still Matter for Senior Marketing Roles Even if you’re highly experienced, interview readiness is crucial. Interviews aren’t just about impressing the employer – they’re also about protecting your own career. Here’s what a structured process gives you: A chance to ask tough questions – about leadership style, company culture, resources, and expectations. The opportunity to identify red flags early – before you resign from your current role or commit to something that isn’t the right fit. Alignment on scope and priorities – so you don’t step into a role that looks completely different once you start. A level playing field – ensuring you’re assessed fairly alongside other candidates, not just hand-picked without scrutiny. The Cost of Skipping the Process When senior marketers bypass the interview stage, it can lead to: Misaligned expectations between the employer and employee Higher turnover in marketing leadership roles Frustration on both sides Damage to reputation if things don’t work out Sometimes, the most flattering offer is the one you should treat with the most caution. How to Prepare for Senior Marketing Interviews If it’s been years since your last formal interview, don’t panic – but don’t go in unprepared either. Here are some quick steps to boost your interview readiness : Refresh your story – Be clear about your achievements, leadership style, and the value you bring. Do your research – Understand the company’s market position, growth strategy, and challenges. Prepare questions – Go beyond surface-level queries. Ask about team dynamics, decision-making processes, and measures of success. Practice – Even experienced marketers benefit from a mock interview to sharpen their delivery and boost their confidence. Final Thoughts The interview process is not just a box-ticking exercise – it’s a safeguard. It helps both companies and candidates make better, more informed decisions. So, while the “tap on the shoulder” can feel flattering, skipping interviews can cost you far more than a few hours of nerves. At New Chapter Talent, we work with senior marketing professionals across Australia and New Zealand to ensure the right match between talent and opportunity – not just a quick appointment. Because the right role should feel like a long-term partnership, not a short-term misstep. Contact Lucy Ready to start your next chapter? Looking for a new role? Explore our current marketing jobs H iring top marketing talent? Get in touch ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn . New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Roles
By Lucy Bolan August 19, 2025
If you’re a marketer between roles, looking to grow your network, and wanting to stay inspired while exploring new marketing recruitment opportunities, now is the perfect time to connect with communities that will keep you learning, motivated, and industry-ready. At New Chapter Talent , we believe that investing in yourself and surrounding yourself with inspiring people is just as important as polishing your CV or preparing for interviews . That’s why we’ve pulled together a list of six “go-to” people, podcasts, events, and organisations that every marketer should have on their radar. These aren’t just names—they’re platforms that will elevate your knowledge, open new doors, and remind you why you love working in marketing. And the best part? You’ll often find me at these events too—so if you spot a familiar face, come and say hi! 1. Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) If you’re not already following the Australian Marketing Institute , you’re missing out. AMI is the peak body for marketers in Australia, offering incredible professional development opportunities, resources, and networking events. One not to miss is their upcoming event at QT: Future-Ready Marketing: Building the Skills That Matter . This event is designed to help marketers sharpen the skills needed to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry. 👉 Get your ticket here – I’ll be there and can’t wait to connect with you. 2. Jac Phillips & Gabrielle Dolan – Keeping It Real with Jac and Ral If inspiration was a double espresso, these two would be the baristas! Jac Phillips and Gabrielle Dolan are brilliant marketing thought leaders, hosting the podcast Keeping It Real with Jac and Ral. Beyond the podcast, they’re running the Finders Keepers Immersion Retreat (23rd–25th October at the Lancemore Hotel Group, Milawa). It’s three days of powerful learning, networking, and personal growth. I’ve already signed up and I can tell you—it’s the best investment you can make in yourself. 3. Anna Samkova – Retail & CX Trailblazer For marketers with a passion for retail, digital transformation, and loyalty, Anna Samkova is a leader you’ll want to follow. Known as the retail Queen Bee of CX, Anna shares inspiring insights regularly on LinkedIn and is a true advocate for customer-centric marketing. Her thought leadership is both practical and uplifting—she’s one of the kindest, most approachable people you’ll meet in the industry. 4. Chanel Clark & The Marketing Club AU/NZ Networking is at the heart of marketing, and Chanel Clark is revolutionising how marketers connect, support, and empower each other. Through The Marketing Club AU/NZ , she’s built a vibrant community offering events, workshops, and mentorship programs. If you’re looking to expand your network, learn from peers, and feel part of something bigger, this is a community you’ll love. Chanel is a true pocket rocket of energy and inspiration! 5. Catherine & Stephen Toms – AI in Marketing As AI transforms the way we work, marketers need to be ready. Catherine Toms and Stephen Toms are leading the charge with their platform, AI in Marketing . They provide practical, paid online courses to help marketers—from junior levels right through to CMOs—understand how to integrate AI into their strategies. If you want the right tools in your marketing toolbox, these two should be on your radar. 6. Australian Centre for AI in Marketing (ACAiM) Founded by four powerhouse CMOs—Louise Cummins, Jodie Sangster, Rochelle Tognetti, and Douglas Nicol—the Australian Centre for AI in Marketing is doing fantastic work educating the marketing community about the role of AI. Their website, acam.ai , is full of resources and insights designed to help marketers navigate the AI landscape with confidence. Final Thoughts Whether you’re actively looking for your next role or just want to sharpen your skills while considering your next career move, staying connected to inspiring leaders and communities is essential. In marketing recruitment , employers are always looking for candidates who show curiosity, continuous learning, and a strong professional network. So follow, connect, sign up, and most importantly—get involved. The more you engage with communities like these, the more opportunities you’ll open up for your career. At New Chapter Talent, we’re here to support you in finding not just your next job, but the right chapter in your marketing career. Contact Lucy Ready to start your next chapter? Looking for a new role? Explore our current marketing jobs Hiring top marketing talent? Get in touch ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn . New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Role s
By Annie Salter August 6, 2025
At New Chapter Talent , we know that the right marketing hire can do more than just fill a gap — they can help your brand grow, evolve, and lead in a competitive landscape. That’s why we offer a highly personalised approach to marketing recruitment across Australia and New Zealand , helping both employers and jobseekers navigate the marketing talent market with confidence. With over 20 years of experience , and a base in Melbourne , we work across all levels of marketing roles — from entry-level specialists to senior executives — and across every major industry sector. Whether you're looking for marketing jobs or hiring marketing talent , here’s a breakdown of our specialist recruitment areas: Digital Marketing Recruitment We connect businesses with digital-first thinkers who understand how to reach and convert modern audiences. Our digital marketing jobs include: Head of Digital GM of Digital Digital Marketing Specialist / Manager / Coordinator SEO Manager SEM Manager Pay Per Click Manager Performance Marketing Executive Social Media Manager / Coordinator Content Manager / Specialist Digital Channel Manager Digital Producer Digital Product Manager Digital Analyst We help brands across Australia and New Zealand build high-performing digital teams ready for growth. eCommerce Recruitment The future of retail is digital — and we specialise in eCommerce recruitment across both B2C and B2B channels. eCommerce job roles we recruit for include: Head / GM of eCommerce eCommerce Lead Web Manager CRO Manager / Specialist Online Trade Manager eCommerce Operations Manager eCommerce Account Manager eCommerce Coordinator / Specialist eCommerce & Digital Manager From strategy to operations, we place eCommerce professionals who drive results. CRM & CX Recruitment Customer loyalty and personalisation are non-negotiables — and we know the specialists who deliver them. We recruit for a range of CRM and customer experience (CX) jobs : Head of CRM CRM Manager / Specialist Email Marketing Specialist CX Manager / Director / Strategist CRM Analyst Marketing Automation Specialist Customer Journey Specialist Data Scientists & Analysts Data Insights Manager Customer Lifecycle Manager If you're looking to hire or find a role focused on the customer experience, we can help. Product Recruitment Great product talent understands innovation, customer needs, and market trends. We specialise in product recruitment for roles including: Head of Product / Portfolio Management GM of Product Product Manager / Senior / Assistant Product Development Manager Portfolio Manager Proposition Manager Product Analyst Product Owner Product Specialist / Coordinator We place product professionals who can bring ideas to life. Marketing Recruitment From campaign execution to strategic leadership, we cover the full spectrum of marketing jobs in Australia and New Zealand : Head of Marketing / GM of Marketing CMO / CXO Senior Marketing Manager / Marketing Manager Loyalty Marketing Manager / Head of Loyalty Campaign Manager Marketing Executive / Specialist Marketing Coordinator / Assistant Marketing Analyst Brand Manager / Senior Brand Manager Communications Manager / Marketing Communications Manager PR Manager / Account Manager Internal / External Comms Specialist We help brands across every sector build brilliant marketing teams. Executive Recruitment We don’t just fill roles — we build leadership teams. Our executive marketing recruitment focuses on top-tier roles, such as: CMO / GM of Marketing / GM of Digital / GM of Product Head of Digital / Head of Marketing / Head of Brand / Head of Communications Senior Marketing & Digital Leaders Whether you’re searching for your next executive opportunity or hiring a strategic leader, we’ve got you covered. Communications Recruitment Clear communication builds strong reputations. We recruit across all areas of corporate, internal, and external communications : Head of Communications Communications Manager / Coordinator Media Relations Manager Corporate Communications Manager Campaign Manager Public Affairs Specialist Crisis Communications Specialist Content Strategist PR Manager / PR Account Manager Employee Engagement Manager Speechwriter Community Relations Manager Internal / External Comms Specialist Social Media Communications Manager Category Recruitment Especially relevant for FMCG and retail , our category recruitment services include roles such as: Category Manager / Senior / Assistant Category Analyst / Category Insights Manager Trade Marketing Manager Category Development Manager Category Marketing Manager Category Specialist Pricing Analyst Merchandising Manager Retail Category Manager Product Manager (within Category) We understand how important commercial and shopper strategy roles are to your business success. Creative Recruitment Creative roles are essential in telling brand stories and standing out in a crowded marketplace. We recruit for creative talent in: Graphic Designer Digital Designer Motion Graphics Designer Art Director Creative Director Web Designer Illustrator Photographer Videographer Whether agency-side or in-house, we know where the creative talent is. Brand Recruitment Your brand is your promise — and we help you find the right people to deliver it. Our brand recruitment spans roles such as: Chief Brand Officer (CBO) VP of Brand Marketing Head of Brand Global Brand Manager Senior / Brand Manager Brand Strategist Brand Experience Manager Employer Branding Manager Brand Communications Manager / Director Assistant Brand Manager We match strategic brand thinkers with organisations that value impact. Why New Chapter Talent? ✅ Australia & New Zealand Focus – Based in Melbourne , operating nationally and across the Tasman ✅ Marketing Experts – We’ve worked in and recruited marketing for over 20 years ✅ True Specialisation – We live and breathe marketing, and only marketing ✅ For Employers & Jobseekers – Whether you're hiring or job hunting, we’re here to help Ready to start your next chapter? Looking for a new role? Explore our current marketing jobs Hiring top marketing talent? Get in touch with our team Contact Lucy ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn . New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Role s
By New Chapter Talent August 5, 2025
How to Regain Control and Assess if the Role’s Right for You!
By New Chapter Talent July 24, 2025
What do you get when you bring together some of the sharpest marketing minds, inspiring stories, and a room full of good vibes? The 2025 New Chapter Talent Marketing Excellence & Rising Star Awards , of course — and what a night it was! Held at a completely sold-out venue, the awards evening last night was a celebration of talent, tenacity, and the transformative power of marketing. From the energy in the room to the meaningful conversations on stage and the generosity shown towards an incredible cause, it’s safe to say this one will be hard to top. The Winners This year’s submissions were nothing short of outstanding, and the judges had their work cut out for them. After hours of deliberation (and maybe a few strong coffees), two standout marketers emerged as this year’s winners: Marketing Excellence Award Winner: Georgia Pedersen , Head of Marketing at Melbourne Park Georgia’s leadership, strategic brilliance, and impact across the sports and entertainment industry made her the clear choice for this year’s top honour. From record-breaking campaign results to uplifting her team and broader industry peers — Georgia is the definition of marketing excellence. Runner-up: Matt Farnham , Marketing Manager at MOVE Bank Matt’s innovative, resourceful approach with a lean team is changing the game in financial services marketing. His campaigns deliver big results on modest budgets — and his leadership is leaving a lasting legacy.
By Lucy Bolan July 17, 2025
The job market can be a rollercoaster—especially in marketing, where roles are shifting, budgets tightening, and the competition for good opportunities is fierce. At New Chapter Talent, we’ve been speaking with many marketers who are navigating job loss, career transitions, and financial strain all at once. And while most friends, family and colleagues mean well, some common comments—though well-intentioned—can actually miss the mark. If someone you know is between jobs in marketing, here’s what not to say—and what to say instead. 1. ❌ “Still no bites?” OR “Any more irons in the fire?” They’re already feeling the pressure, trust us. These kinds of questions, though casual, can unintentionally highlight the uncertainty they're facing. ✅ Try this instead: “Anything exciting in the works? Let me know if I can help.” 2. ❌ “At least you’ve got time to reset!” Sure, burnout is real. But when you’re out of work (and possibly watching your savings dwindle), this doesn’t feel like a ‘reset’. It feels stressful and unsettling. ✅ Try this instead: “How are you going? Job hunting can be exhausting. Here if you need a chat.” 3. ❌ “Have you thought about going freelance?” Freelancing works for some, but it’s not a universal solution—and not everyone wants to be self-employed or has the financial buffer to do so. ✅ Try this instead: “Are you leaning towards in-house, agency, or something else? Keen to hear what you’re looking for.” 4. ❌ “It’s all about who you know.” While there’s truth to the power of networking, this phrase can feel defeating to someone who’s already reaching out and coming up short. ✅ Try this instead: “Who would you love to connect with right now? Happy to make intros if I can.” 5. ❌ “Everything happens for a reason.” This one can sting, especially when rent or mortgage payments are looming and self-doubt is creeping in. ✅ Try this instead: “I feel your pain, and I’m sorry you’re in it. You’re bloody good at what you do, and something great will land.” Support Matters—Now More Than Ever If you're currently in a stable marketing role, this is your moment to show up for others. Share leads. Offer introductions. Back your peers. And sometimes, the best support is just listening without trying to fix. Marketing job seekers don’t need toxic positivity—they need empathy, encouragement, and real opportunities. Let’s be better allies for each other. Looking for more job hunting tips or marketing career advice? Follow us on LinkedIn or explore the New Chapter Talent blog for more support, stories, and insights tailored to Australian marketers. Contact Lucy Need help finding your next marketing role? We’re here to help. At New Chapter Talent, we understand the marketing landscape and can guide you towards the roles that best fit your skills and aspirations - get in touch with us today! Feel free to contact Lucy... ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn .
By New Chapter Talent July 10, 2025
(2025 Edition)
By Lucy Bolan July 8, 2025
How to Make the Right Call for Your Business Over the years recruiting senior marketers, I’ve had countless conversations with talented CMOs and Heads of Marketing who’ve landed what looked like dream roles—only to find themselves, just a few months in, bogged down in emails, briefing social posts, and fighting for buy-in. ❌ No real strategy. ❌ No room to innovate. ❌ No chance to make the impact their experience promised. It’s a frustrating mismatch—and often, a sign that the business wasn’t actually ready for senior marketing leadership in the first place. So, if you’re asking yourself “Do I need a CMO or a Marketing Manager?”, it’s worth stepping back and honestly assessing what your business needs right now. Before you hire, ask yourself: Does my business have a clear marketing strategy and structure already in place? A CMO can absolutely build this from scratch, but only if your leadership team is ready to support that process. Am I looking for someone to manage and execute, or to lead and innovate? If you're expecting hands-on delivery, a great Marketing Manager might be the better (and more cost-effective) choice. Are we ready for a leader who’ll challenge the status quo and drive change? A strong senior marketer will push for investment, process change, and long-term thinking. That’s their job—and they need executive-level backing to do it well. How mature is our current marketing team? A CMO without the right team beneath them often ends up doing the execution work themselves. Which isn’t what anyone wants. Is there alignment at the executive level about marketing’s role in growth? This is crucial . If the leadership team doesn’t understand or agree on marketing’s purpose, it’ll be near-impossible for any senior marketer to succeed. The Bottom Line Hiring a CMO isn’t just about finding someone senior—it’s about making sure your business is ready to unlock the value that comes with strategic marketing leadership. If you’re not quite there yet, that’s OK. A brilliant Marketing Manager who can execute, optimise, and grow with the business might be the perfect next step. But if you are ready for bold leadership, big thinking, and transformation—go ahead and hire that CMO. And give them the support they need to thrive. Because the right hire, at the right time, can be a game-changer. Contact Lucy Need help finding your next marketing or CMO role? We’re here to connect top talent with the right opportunities. At New Chapter Talent, we understand the marketing landscape and can guide you towards the roles that best fit your skills and aspirations - get in touch with us today! Feel free to contact Lucy... ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn .
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