16 June 2026 – Cannes Lions has named Jim Stengel as the inaugural Lions Laureate for Marketing; a new honour recognising individuals whose vision, influence, and contribution have left an enduring mark on the marketing profession and advanced the role of creative marketing as a driver of business growth.
Throughout a distinguished career spanning more than three decades, including seven years as Global Marketing Officer at Procter & Gamble, Stengel has helped shape modern marketing leadership.
In 2003, Stengel brought the first major client-side marketing delegation to Cannes Lions, helping accelerate the Festival’s evolution into a global meeting place for marketers, brand builders and business leaders.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Stengel has dedicated much of the last two decades to developing the next generation of marketers through teaching, writing, and mentorship. In 2011, Stengel served as the Dean for the inaugural Cannes Lions Creative Academy for Marketers before establishing and pioneering the CMO Accelerator Programme in 2013, which continues to develop senior marketing leaders to this day.
Simon Cook, CEO, LIONS, said: “Jim’s influence extends far beyond the marketing functions and organisations he has led. Through his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering belief in the power of creative marketing, he has shaped the thinking and careers of marketers across generations. His impact on our industry is both profound and enduring, not only through the brands and businesses he has helped build, but through the leaders he has inspired and developed along the way. We are delighted to recognise Jim as the inaugural Lions Laureate – for Marketing. I can think of no one more deserving of this honour, nor anyone who better embodies what it stands for.”
On being made aware of this honour, Jim Stengel said: “I am deeply honoured. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to learn from extraordinary colleagues, partners, and friends, and this recognition is really a reflection of those relationships. I have always believed that creativity is one of the most powerful forces for growth in business and positive impact in the world. If I have contributed anything along the way, I hope it has been encouraging marketers to think a little bigger about the role they can play, the value they can create, and the difference they can make. For that, and for the many people who have shaped my journey, I am profoundly grateful.”
Jim Stengel will deliver the inaugural Lions Laureate Seminar in the Debussy Theatre on Thursday 25 June, ahead of receiving the award at the Cannes Lions Awards Show that evening. Information on the Festival and ways to attend can be found here.
