M&S and Bacardi's Brand Marketing Strategy with Helen Cutmore | Marketing Podcast

Everyone sees the household names. But how do you stay at the top?In this episode of Digital Cheesecake, we sit down with Helen Cutmore (Bacardi, ex-M&S) to unpack the real world of global Marketing Leadership.From retail giants to spirits powerhouses, Helen shares the strategic moves that turn a product into a cultural icon. We cover:• The "secret sauce" global brands have that startups miss• Why performance marketing is quietly overshadowing brand building• What separates a good marketer from a great one in 2026• Key focus areas for marketing leaders this yearTimestamps:00:00 Intro02:15 Realising the brand marketing niche07:40 What turns a product into a brand people love?13:10 The "Global Brand" advantage startups ignore21:20 Brand vs. Performance: The ultimate debate29:45 Good vs. Great: The skill that changes everything36:20 Advice for future CMOs🎧 Listen on Spotify: [link]🍏 Apple Podcasts: [link]