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When Amazon and Others Cut Back, Hiring Teams Can Move Forward: How to Win Amid AI-Driven Layoffs
The headlines are everywhere: tech layoffs are accelerating, and artificial intelligence is increasingly cited as both a disruptor and a catalyst for workforce change. While many organizations are trimming headcount or freezing hiring, companies that aren’t laying off have a rare opportunity to strengthen their teams if they move strategically. Below, we break down what’s happening, what it means for hiring teams, and how you can succeed during this pivotal moment. What’s Ha

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


Why a Boutique Executive Search Firm with Marketing Expertise Finds Better Marketing Leaders
When it comes to hiring a senior marketing executive, many companies turn to large search firms with big databases and name recognition. But here’s the truth: the best marketing leaders aren’t found through volume...they’re identified through understanding. And that’s where a boutique executive search firm with deep marketing roots makes all the difference. 1. They Know What “Great” Looks Like in Marketing Most traditional search firms operate across every function and indus

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


What to Look for in Marketing Leaders in 2026
The role of the marketing leader has evolved dramatically in recent years, and in the coming year, the expectations are higher than ever. Some organizations that I've had conversations with are even describing a sort of "CEO Lite", that is overseeing much of the organization. Most however, want executives who can drive growth, build trust, and lead with both creativity and data. If you’re evaluating marketing leaders in 2026, here are the qualities and capabilities that matte

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


How to Build an Executive Interview Process That Attracts, Not Repels, Top Talent
When hiring at the executive level, the stakes are high. A great CRO, CMO, or VP of Sales can transform revenue growth, align...

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


Back to School, Back to Hiring: Why Now Is the Time to Restart Your Interview Process
The school year has started, routines are back in place, and for many companies, this is the perfect time to refocus on hiring. Just as...

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


Hire Now, Win Later: Why October Is the Critical Deadline for Sales & Marketing Leadership
For CEOs, CROs, and founders, timing is everything when it comes to hiring. If you’re considering bringing on a senior marketing or sales...

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


Why Successful Leaders Are Ditching "Hire Slowly, Fire Fast".
The "Hire Slowly, Fire Fast" approach has been around for decades echoed in books in the early 2000's and later on became a mantra among...

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


How Successful Marketing Leaders Are Approaching AI and What to Look For in Your Next Marketing Leader.
Literally every company boiler plate today, ”company xyz is an AI-driven solution focused on automating xyz for growing companies.” You...

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


7 Reasons to Use a Boutique Executive Search Firm Instead of an In-House Recruiting Team
When it comes to hiring executives and go-to-market leaders, many companies rely Partnering with an executive search firm can give you an...

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


From Chaos to Clarity: How S.P.L.A.S.H. Helps CEOs Hire Leaders Who Actually Fit their Culture
we created the S.P.L.A.S.H.™ Hiring Methodology to fix that and to bring order, objectivity, and insight to one of the most complex decisions a CEO or founder will ever make.

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


CEO & COO CHEAT SHEET: Interview Questions That Actually Predict Sales Leader Success
When you're hiring a VP of Sales or a CRO, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A bad hire at the top of your sales org doesn't just cost you...

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


Quick Hits: Why Choose a Boutique Executive Search Firm Over a Large Firm?
You've started doing your research and you come across a number of large firms and several boutique firms...but how are they different...

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


How to Spot a Modern Marketing Leader: Traits That Matter in 2025
Whether you're a CEO hiring a new VP of Marketing or a recruiter evaluating top talent, here are the critical traits that separate the great from the good.

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


Why Your Marketing Executive Search Is Failing and How to Fix It
Why does marketing executive hiring fail so often? And how can you avoid those costly missteps? We take you though the 5 most common hiring mistakes.

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


CMO vs. VP of Marketing: Who Does Your Business Really Need?
It’s one of the most common crossroads companies face. Get it right, and you unlock go-to-market clarity, pipeline growth, and brand momentum. Get it wrong, and you risk bloated spend, misaligned strategy, and missed revenue goals.
So how do you decide what level of marketing leadership is right for your business?
Let’s break it down.

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


5 Red Flags to Watch for When Interviewing Marketing Leaders
Hiring a top-tier marketing leader is one of the most critical decisions a company can make. The right CMO or VP of Marketing can drive revenue, build brand equity, and create sustainable growth. But how do you spot potential pitfalls before making a costly hiring mistake? Here are five red flags to watch for when interviewing marketing leaders.

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


How to Align Your CEO and CMO for GTM Success
In high-growth companies, the relationship between the CEO and CMO can make or break a go-to-market (GTM) strategy. When aligned, these two leaders drive revenue growth, market expansion, and brand dominance. When misaligned, friction leads to stalled pipeline progress, messaging confusion, and missed opportunities.
So, how do you ensure that your CEO and CMO are operating in lockstep? Here’s what it takes to build a strong partnership that fuels GTM success.

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


The Evolution of the CMO Role: What’s Next in 2025 and Beyond?
The role of the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) has always been one of transformation. But in
2025, the pace of change is faster than ever. As businesses navigate AI advancements, shifting buyer behaviors, and increasing revenue accountability, today’s CMO must evolve...or risk becoming obsolete.
So, what does the future hold for marketing leaders? Here’s how the CMO role is changing and what’s next for those leading the charge.

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read


Marketing Talent Trends: What the Top 1% Are Doing Differently
In today’s hyper-competitive market, securing top marketing talent is harder than ever. But what separates the best from the rest? After years of working with elite marketing executives, we’ve identified key trends that define the top 1% of marketing leaders.
If you’re looking to elevate your marketing leadership, or hire someone who will truly move the needle, here’s what to look for.

Ocean Exec Talent
3 min read


Why the Demand for Revenue-Driven CMOs Has Never Been Higher
n the past, CMOs were often seen as brand stewards, creative visionaries, or communications experts. But in 2025, the role has shifted dramatically, and decisively. Today’s most sought-after marketing leaders are not just storytellers. They’re revenue drivers.

Ocean Exec Talent
2 min read
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