Excerpt from Forbes Article, Published on September 11, 2025
CMO influence is transforming the way businesses address data privacy and security. According to Forbes’ latest research, more than half of global marketing leaders now list data protection as a strategic objective, a dramatic rise from the previous year. This shift signals a new era where the CMO takes a front-line role in championing responsible data stewardship. As regulations tighten and consumers grow more mindful of how their data is used, the CMO’s expertise is crucial for building trust and transparency.
Stephanie Liu, a senior Forrester analyst, points out that the CMO must now guide complex privacy strategies, ensuring that marketing aligns with both compliance and ethical standards. Customers are not just passive recipients—they expect clear communication and accountability when sharing their information. With 80% of CMOs surveyed agreeing that privacy-first policies drive loyalty and satisfaction, securing data takes equal priority to growing brand engagement.
The role of artificial intelligence adds complexity. Today’s CMO manages third-party analytics and technology-driven data collection, balancing innovation with responsible usage. Nearly three-quarters of CMO leaders say robust governance is necessary for AI, as new marketing tools require ethical oversight to prevent privacy breaches and misuse.
In conclusion, the modern CMO is uniquely positioned to set new standards for trust by leading efforts in data privacy and security. This approach not only safeguards consumer interests, but also strengthens brands in a competitive digital marketplace.
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