Unlocking Success: Career Growth Insights from 4A's President and CEO, Marla Kaplowitz

With over three decades of industry expertise in marketing, media, and communications, Marla Kaplowitz brought her seasoned experience to the 4A's in 2017 as President & CEO. Guiding the association, she redefines its future trajectory, fostering collaborative impact for member success in business transformation and talent development.Before her role at the 4A's, Marla led as CEO of North America at MEC (now Wavemaker, part of WPP) from 2011 to 2017. Her 12-year journey at MediaVest (now Spark Foundry, part of Publicis) preceded this, following her beginnings at DMB&B and Ammirati Puris Lintas.Marla's influential footprint extends to various roles, including directorship at Penn Entertainment's Board and memberships on non-profit Boards such as The Ad Council, BBB National Programs, Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA), Trustworthy Accountability Group (TAG), and MediaVillage.In this episode, Marla and I discuss:Staying Goal-Oriented: Insights on how to align with your goals and maintain unwavering focus.Feedback vs. Criticism: Navigating the fine line between feedback and criticism and leveraging both for growth.Normalizing Self-Doubt: Viewing Imposter Syndrome as a natural part of growth and actionable ways to overcome it.Leading Industry Transformation: How Marla shapes the focus of the 4A's and its commitment to diversity and inclusion, driving industry-wide change. Ageism Expertise: Advice for candidates over 40, combatting ageism and leveraging experience.Show's Guest: Marla Kaplowitz, President & CEO, 4A’sFollow Marla Kaplowitz on LinkedInLearn more about the American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A’s) HERELearn about the 4A’s and Catalyte Apprenticeship program HERESupport the showJill Griffin, is a leadership and career strategist, executive coach, and host of The Career Refresh podcast. She works with high achievers to strengthen their leadership, navigate career transitions, build effective teams, and create what’s next.With 20+ years of experience at companies like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton, and Martha Stewart, Jill brings a practical, real-world lens to leadership, decision-making, and career strategy. Visit GriffinMethod.com to learn more about working together:The Next Era Leader An 12-week cohort for women leaders ready to expand their capacity and lead through complexity with clarity and intentionExecutive Coaching & Leadership Advisory 1:1 strategic partnership for leaders navigating growth, transition, and what’s nextConnect with Jill for Leadership Development for Organizations and Speaking & WorkshopsInstagram: @JillGriffinOffical