In this episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with Libby Hodgson, Chief Marketing Officer at UNICEF Australia, for a thoughtful and refreshingly honest conversation about what modern marketing leadership really looks like.

Libby shares her non-linear career journey across financial services, the UK, and purpose-led organisations, and reflects on the moments that shaped her leadership style. From navigating workplace conflict to building confidence over time, this is a grounded look at what it actually takes to grow into a CMO role.

The conversation also dives into one of the biggest shifts facing marketers today, the rise of AI. Libby unpacks how UNICEF has approached adoption in a practical, human-first way, and why culture, not just tools, determines success.

A must-listen for marketers at every stage, especially those thinking about leadership, relevance, and how to build a career that lasts.

• Why career paths aren’t always planned: Libby reflects on how her early career wasn’t mapped out for leadership, and how stepping outside the “expected path” helped shape her trajectory.
• The reality of leadership and conflict: One of the biggest lessons in her career has been learning to sit with discomfort, manage conflict, and lead through ambiguity.
• The skills marketers need at different stages: From execution and delivery early on, to strategy, financial literacy, and people leadership at senior levels, the skillset evolves more than most expect.
• How AI is actually being implemented in marketing teams: A practical look at how to introduce AI without overwhelming teams, starting with guardrails, empowering individuals, and focusing on real business problems.
• Why soft skills are becoming the differentiator: As AI accelerates capability, it’s emotional intelligence, curiosity, and critical thinking that will set marketers apart.
• Specialist vs generalist – what really works: Early specialisation can accelerate growth, but long-term leadership requires breadth, adaptability, and a willingness to step into the unknown.
• What makes a great CMO today: Strategic thinking, strong communication, curiosity, resilience, and the ability to connect marketing to real business outcomes.

UNICEF Australia – Purpose-led organisation focused on protecting children’s rights and wellbeing globally.

AI in Marketing (ACAM) – Practical frameworks around governance, experimentation, and adoption within teams.

Libby Hodgson on LinkedIn

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This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today!

Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/

Email: [email protected]

Chapters:

• (00:00) Introduction to CMO Chapters & Libby Hodgson
• (01:25) Libby’s Career Journey: From Financial Services to UNICEF
• (02:09) Early Career Ambition & Finding Direction
• (04:21) Career Reflections: Decisions, Regrets & Purpose
• (05:53) Hard Lessons: Navigating Conflict as a Leader
• (08:31) Advice for Aspiring CMOs: Skills That Matter
• (11:46) AI, Soft Skills & Staying Relevant in Marketing
• (15:14) Inside AI Adoption at UNICEF: Where to Start
• (22:05) Building a Personal Brand as a Marketing Leader
• (25:36) What It Really Takes to Be a Successful CMO
• (27:46) The Reality of Leadership: Pressure & Loneliness
• (31:09) Specialist vs Generalist: Career Strategy Explained
• (34:10) Legacy, Impact & Supporting Others’ Careers