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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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A person in a brown top smiles at a person in a brown blazer during a discussion. They are in an office.
By Lucy Bolan October 30, 2025
Learn how to confidently answer “What problems do you solve?” in interviews. Discover how to showcase your marketing impact with New Chapter Talent.
Four diverse coworkers collaborating around a desk with laptop, papers, and computer in a brick-walled office.
By Lucy Bolan October 14, 2025
At New Chapter Talent , we get to connect with some of the most inspiring marketing leaders across Australia and New Zealand — and a common theme keeps emerging: the quiet power of the generalist marketer . It came up again at our recent New Chapter: CMO Collective Club lunch , where several CMOs shared their love for the book Range by David Epstein. In a world that often celebrates specialisation — the data gurus, the brand purists, the performance pros — these marketers reminded us why having range is something to be proud of. The power of the generalist marketer Generalist marketers are the ultimate connectors. They see the big picture — not just the campaign, but the entire ecosystem. They bridge brand and performance, data and creativity, strategy and execution. In today’s fast-paced marketing landscape, where roles and technologies evolve constantly, that adaptability is gold. The ability to zoom out and see how it all fits together is what makes generalists invaluable to teams and organisations alike. Here’s what makes generalist marketers truly shine: They see across the entire customer journey, from awareness to retention. They bring context, connecting insights from different disciplines. They lead cross-functional teams with empathy and perspective. They can pivot quickly when business priorities or market conditions change. Why generalists thrive in modern marketing In Range, David Epstein explores how generalists often outperform specialists in complex, unpredictable environments — precisely the kind of environment marketers operate in today. Epstein’s research spans fields from sport to science to business, showing that early specialisation isn’t always the key to success. Instead, those who explore widely, draw from diverse experiences, and learn to connect ideas across disciplines are often the ones who thrive when faced with change. It’s a book that challenges the “10,000-hour rule” popularised by Malcolm Gladwell , arguing instead that breadth of experience leads to better problem-solving and innovation. For marketers navigating evolving technologies, shifting customer behaviour, and constant transformation, that insight couldn’t be more relevant. The future belongs to the adaptable The future of marketing leadership isn’t just about expertise in one domain. It’s about connection, adaptability, and curiosity . It’s about understanding how everything from brand storytelling to customer data, AI, and CX fits together to drive growth. So here’s to the curious, the adaptable, the connector-marketers who zoom out and dive in — the ones shaping what modern marketing leadership really looks like. And if you haven’t read it yet, grab a copy of Range by David Epstein . It’s a brilliant reminder that being a generalist isn’t a weakness — it’s a superpower . Contact Lucy  Looking for career advice? Get in touch with 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 Roles
Five people seated around a restaurant table, smiling at the camera. Dishes of food and drinks are visible.
By Lucy Bolan October 10, 2025
The New Chapter: Marketing Collective Club officially kicked off this month — and what a launch it was! Our inaugural lunch brought together 20+ brilliant marketing leaders from across Melbourne to connect, share ideas, and spark meaningful conversations. The room buzzed with energy (and a few new LinkedIn connections too), proving one thing loud and clear — marketers are craving more opportunities to connect in person. Why We Started the Marketing Collective Club In today’s fast-paced marketing world, the role of the modern marketing leader is constantly evolving. From brand and digital transformation to data-driven strategy and customer experience, there’s a growing need for community-led learning and collaboration . That’s exactly why we launched the New Chapter: Marketing Collective Club — a space designed exclusively for CMOs and Heads of Marketing , whether you’re employed or fractional, to come together, learn from each other, share experiences , and build meaningful professional relationships. Key Takeaways from the First Event Our first event didn’t just bring people together — it reminded us why community matters. Here are a few highlights from the launch: Marketers want more connection — there’s real enthusiasm for face-to-face interaction. Lifelong learning is key — leaders are hungry to grow, evolve, and stay ahead of the curve. Collaboration beats competition — sharing insights and challenges makes us all stronger. It was truly inspiring to be surrounded by passionate, purpose-driven marketing professionals , each bringing unique perspectives to the table. What’s Next for the Marketing Collective Club The Marketing Collective Club will meet monthly on the second Thursday of each month, with each event offering something new — from thought-provoking discussions to interactive networking formats (yes, speed networking may be on the cards next time! 😉). Next event: Thursday, 13th November 2025 Venue: The Duke of Wellington – Russell Room, 146 Flinders Street, Melbourne Tickets: $69 per person (+ booking fees) Bookings are already rolling in , so if you’re keen to join, grab your ticket via the group link before spots fill up. Why You Should Join If you’re a marketing leader in Australia looking to: Build your professional network Learn from other CMOs and Heads of Marketing Stay ahead of industry trends Be part of a supportive, collaborative community Then the New Chapter: Marketing Collective Club is the place for you. It’s more than just a networking group — it’s a community built on shared experiences, learning, and authentic connection . Get Involved Want to be part of the next event or learn more about joining the club? Reach out to Lucy Bolan for details: 📩 lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 About New Chapter Talent At New Chapter Talent, we’re passionate about connecting, supporting, and elevating marketing talent across Australia and New Zealand. From recruitment to community initiatives like the Marketing Collective Club, we’re here to help marketers grow — professionally and personally. 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 October 7, 2025
Discover the best marketing events in Australia and New Zealand this October — from Melbourne to Sydney and across the Tasman. Perfect for marketers looking to learn, network, and grow their careers.
By Lucy Bolan October 2, 2025
Last week, I had conversations with two CMOs—both from different industries, both highly respected in their fields. And yet, both shared the same frustration: they feel like they’re being edged away from the C-suite table. Sadly, this isn’t the first time I’ve heard this. And I have no doubt it won’t be the last. The irony? CMOs carry the customer. They drive growth, brand, loyalty, data, and digital transformation. No other role has such a holistic view of both the customer and the business. Yet too often, they’re: ➡️ Left defending budgets instead of driving strategy. ➡️ Treated as a cost centre rather than a growth engine. ➡️ Sidelined while “harder” functions steal the spotlight. It’s not just frustrating—it’s short-sighted. Companies that exclude CMOs from strategic conversations are, in effect, pushing growth off the table. The Cost of Excluding CMOs As one marketer put it, this cycle isn’t new. Businesses often merge and separate sales and marketing functions in waves, and the same appears to be true for the role of the CMO in strategic decision-making. But when companies distance marketing leaders from the executive table, they lose a critical piece of the puzzle—the voice of the customer. The “cost” of excluding CMOs may not be immediately apparent, but it becomes clear over time. Customer disconnect. Weak brand loyalty. Missed market opportunities. Competitors who pull ahead because they were closer to the customer reality. And by the time the penny drops, it’s often too late. Shifting Perceptions: From Cost to Growth Driver So, how do CMOs reclaim their place at the table? Much of it comes down to positioning and presence. Speak the language of growth: Instead of framing marketing around “brand” and “campaigns,” CMOs who tie every executive discussion back to revenue growth, market share, or customer lifetime value are far harder to sideline. Prove commercial impact: When budgets are challenged, the most effective CMOs don’t just talk about impressions or clicks. They show the direct correlation between marketing spend and pipeline contribution—channel by channel, conversion by conversion. Own the voice of the customer: No one else in the business has the same insights into shifting customer behaviours and competitor positioning. By owning this narrative, marketing becomes indispensable in strategic planning. As one leader noted, “The moment you prove you can out-data finance and out-insight operations, the seat is no longer optional.” Why Every Voice Matters Cross-functional leadership is at its best when every voice is at the table. Excluding marketing weakens the link between strategy and customer reality—arguably the most important link of all in today’s hyper-competitive, customer-driven world. The organisations that are getting ahead right now are the ones where the CMO isn’t just present—they’re shaping the conversation. They’re not defending budgets, they’re driving growth. Not chasing a seat, but holding one that’s secure because their value is undeniable. And that’s exactly where they should be. 👉 What do you think—are CMOs being unfairly sidelined, or is this a matter of how marketing leaders position themselves? Contact Lucy Ready to start your next chapter?  Looking for a new CMO role? Explore our current marketing jobs Hiring t o p 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 Annie Salter September 18, 2025
Right now, it feels like every marketing conversation starts (and ends) with AI . From automated content creation to predictive analytics, technology is shaping the industry in big ways. But if you’re building a successful marketing career , or even hiring for one, AI isn’t the only piece of the puzzle. Because here’s the thing: people connect with people, not brands. In our work in marketing recruitment across Australia and New Zealand , we’ve seen time and again that the candidates who stand out aren’t just technically strong. They bring something extra: the soft skills that help them connect, inspire, and lead. Why Soft Skills Still Matter in Marketing Jobs From user-generated content campaigns to high-performing social posts, the marketing that cuts through is the content that feels real . The stuff that solves genuine problems, highlights real benefits, or resonates with daily life. Often, the “rough-and-ready” content outperforms the perfectly polished. And do you know why? Because it’s built on empathy, creativity, and human connection - soft skills that no AI tool can replace. Emotional Intelligence: The Real Career Differentiator When we speak to hiring managers about what makes someone truly successful in a marketing role , the answer often isn’t “their Google Ads skills” or “their ability to write prompts.” It’s their emotional intelligence (EI). EI is what allows marketers to: Create campaigns that speak to an audience, not just sell. Manage client relationships with empathy. Navigate stakeholder challenges with confidence. Lead teams in a way that inspires collaboration. In short: EI is still everything - and in today’s competitive market for marketing jobs , it can set you apart from the pack. Storytelling: A Future-Proof Marketing Skill Data might tell you what’s happening, but storytelling is what makes people care. Strong storytelling helps marketers: Frame products within real-life benefits. Create campaigns that people actually want to share. Build brand trust through authentic narratives. It’s one of the most future-proof marketing skills because stories never go out of style. Other Soft Skills That Boost Your Marketing Career Alongside EI and storytelling, these soft skills regularly come up in conversations we have as part of marketing recruitment : Curiosity – Great marketers are lifelong learners. Collaboration – Marketing rarely happens in isolation. Adaptability – With technology constantly shifting, flexibility is key. Critical Thinking – The ability to cut through trends and identify what really drives results. These are the qualities that hiring managers look for when reviewing candidates for marketing jobs , because they’re harder to teach than technical skills. Blending Tech and Humanity AI and automation are powerful tools. But they’re just that: tools. The marketers who thrive are those who blend technical know-how with human skills. In other words: use AI to streamline, but rely on soft skills to truly differentiate. Because at the end of the day, the campaigns that win hearts (and wallets) are the ones that feel human. Whether you’re looking to grow your marketing career or hire top talent, don’t underestimate the power of soft skills. They’re not just “nice to have” - they’re the very thing that makes marketers stand out in a crowded, tech-driven market. 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 September 16, 2025
It’s official: we’ve entered the era of inflated job titles paired with deflated salaries – and it’s creating frustration, confusion, and mistrust in the marketing job market. At New Chapter Talent, we’ve been hearing the same story over and over again from CMOs, Heads of Marketing, and Senior Managers: A role looks senior on paper. The scope and responsibilities are extensive. But when it comes to the salary package? It falls well below market. The Numbers Don’t Stack Up We’re seeing worrying trends in the market: GM / CMO roles pitched at $180K Base + Super – well below what’s reasonable for that level of leadership. Head of Marketing roles advertised at $120–140K Base + Super (sometimes even as low as $90K – alarming!). Senior Strategy positions under $100K , despite requiring responsibilities that span strategy, execution, and delivery. When the title, scope, and expectations are senior, the salary needs to reflect that. Otherwise, you risk alienating the very talent you’re trying to attract. Why This Matters Misaligned roles don’t just hurt candidates – they damage the hiring organisation too. Here’s why: Short-term hires : Strong titles with weak pay often attract candidates looking for a stepping stone rather than a long-term move. Exhausted employees : Asking one person to wear every hat – from strategy to template design – at a mid-level salary is unsustainable. Brand credibility : Candidates talk. Advertising senior-level roles with junior-level salaries creates a reputation that’s hard to shake. Wasted time : Senior marketers won’t apply, while those who do will quickly discover the mismatch and walk away. The “Smoke & Mirrors” Effect Several marketers have described the trend as “smoke and mirrors.” On the surface, the job looks like a big opportunity. But when you dig deeper, it becomes clear the organisation either doesn’t understand – or doesn’t value – what experienced marketers actually bring. Sometimes, employers see inflated titles as a shortcut to attract a bigger talent pool: “We can’t pay for senior talent, but we’ll give the title instead as an incentive.” For ambitious marketers looking to step up, this might appeal in the short term. But for those already operating at that level, it’s frustrating, and often a waste of time. What Salaries Should Look Like To bring some transparency to the discussion, here are realistic salary bandings for senior marketing roles in Melbourne and Sydney (2025 benchmarks): Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) / General Manager Marketing $250K – $350K Base + Super (depending on business size, sector, and scope) Head of Marketing $160K – $220K Base + Super (with higher ranges in competitive industries like tech, finance, or FMCG) Senior Marketing Manager / Marketing Manager $120K – $160K Base + Super (with some roles stretching higher if leadership/team management is included) These ranges reflect both the scope of responsibility and the market’s expectation of senior marketing talent. Anything significantly below this should raise red flags for candidates – and prompt employers to reconsider their positioning. Where Do We Go From Here? The solution isn’t simple, but a few things need to happen: Market alignment – Salary bandings should reflect the true responsibilities of the role. Role clarity – Employers need to define scope honestly. Is this a leadership role, or a hybrid execution role? Be clear upfront. Standardisation – More transparency and consistency in job titles would help candidates (and employers) navigate the market. Value recognition – Experienced marketers deliver real commercial impact. Salaries should reflect that. Final Word Calling out this issue matters. Without change, organisations risk losing top talent, damaging their employer brand, and creating teams that are overworked and underpaid. At New Chapter Talent, we’ll keep highlighting these mismatches – and championing fair, transparent recruitment practices. Because when salary, scope, and title are aligned, everyone wins : candidates, employers, and the marketing industry as a whole. 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 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
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