See how this local program is attracting leaders nationwide + how you can join

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Attention marketing leaders—your next big career move is waiting for you right here in Birmingham. The Chief Marketing Officer Institute’s Executive Development Program is helping pros go from managing projects to managing people and even entire organizations. 

Here’s a peek at what makes this program stand out, what participants are saying and how to apply for the Fall 2025 Cohort.

The CMO Institute draws national marketing leaders to Birmingham 

Marketing isn’t easy. You’ve got to keep learning, stay creative and turn ideas into real business results.

The Chief Marketing Officer Institute (The CMO Institute) began in 2005 to help marketing leaders apply what they learn in research to real-world practice. They do this through three main areas: academic research (through The CMO Journal), executive education and connecting marketing leaders.

Now in its seventh year, the Institute’s Executive Leadership Program—its signature offering—has gained national attention. This fall, leaders from Atlanta, Chicago, New Orleans and even Jamaica will gather at UAB’s campus to be part of Birmingham’s marketing scene.

Hands-on learning for real-world leadership

Think of this program as a launchpad for Birmingham’s rising leaders. It’s built for mid-career managers who are ready to take the next big step, leading teams, solving challenges and leveling up their careers.

The curriculum, crafted by top professors and seasoned execs, is packed with:

• Fresh research you can actually use
• Real-world case studies that hit close to home
• Face-time with C-suite leaders who’ve been there, done that
• Conversations that push your critical thinking

The best part? You’ll not only grow your skills, but also build a lasting network of peers in Birmingham who will have your back throughout your career.

Notable guest speakers + faculty

Each Executive Development Leadership cohort gets to hear from some of the most respected voices in business and leadership. 

Just check out this impressive list of past lecturers and visiting professors:

• Mo Chaara, Chief Data + Analytics Officer, UPS
• David Goldberg, CFO, Beazer Homes
• Tom Jones, Harvard Business School Executive in Residence, author of The Service Profit Chain
• Dr. Rita McGrath, Columbia University, best-selling author + one of the world’s top business thinkers
• Major General N. Lee Price, U.S. Army (ret.), one of the military’s highest-ranking women

Success stories

(L-R) Rod Black, Marketing Executive, Mammoth Holding; Ritu Parr, Chief Marketing Officer, Advance Automotive; Samantha Morris, Brand Manager, The Jamaica Biscuit Company Limited

Here’s what people are saying about the program:

Samantha Morris—Fall 2025 Executive Development Leadership participant

“I have a strong thirst for knowledge and know it’s vital to stay in tune with the latest trends to grow as an impactful leader. The CMO Institute’s Executive Development Program aligns perfectly with my goal of becoming the best marketer I can be. Its competitive advantage made the decision to travel to Birmingham an easy one.”

Ritu Parr—Executive Development Leadership graduate

“The program refined my strategic lens and gave me the confidence to lead more boldly while aligning marketing with enterprise-wide goals. Since then, I’ve stepped into a broader leadership role at Advance Automotive, where the experience continues to shape how I lead—with clarity, empathy and innovation.”

Rod Black—Executive Development Leadership graduate

“The program expanded my ability to think like a true enterprise leader, giving me fresh perspectives on strategy, innovation and organizational influence. It helped me make more confident, high-impact decisions.”

Key details

• Program length: 12 weeks
• Tuition: $2,275 (payment plans available)
• Matriculation fee: $475 (includes materials, facility use + parking)
• Admission: Competitive—participants typically hold a graduate degree
• Location: UAB’s campus

Don’t forget the perks! Program graduates are invited to exclusive alumni events and are granted access to The CMO Institute’s private LinkedIn group.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Learn more and apply for The CMO Institute’s Executive Development Program now.

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