Wiltshire retiring from role as president of The CMA

CMA announces executive leadership changes

TORONTO, ON–The Board of Directors of the Canadian Marketing Association (CMA) announced that John Wiltshire has decided to retire from his role as President and CEO effective May 2, 2022.

“John has made an outstanding contribution to the CMA over the past five years,” says Steve Mast, Chair of the CMA Board, and President and Chief Innovation Officer at Delvinia. “He leaves the CMA in a strong financial position with a clear strategic plan and an impressive team of talented individuals across the organization.”

Products launched under Wiltshire’s leadership include CMA NXT, CMA Café, CMA Connect and Chartered Marketer – Canada’s professional marketing designation. He transformed the role and impact of CMA Councils and has been an impressive advocate on behalf of the marketing community, particularly on the issue of privacy law reform. During the last two years, he successfully navigated the CMA through the uncertainty of the pandemic.

“The Board of Directors extends thanks to John for his dedication, leadership and many accomplishments, leaving a solid foundation for the future success of the CMA,” said Kerri Dawson, Vice-Chair of the CMA Board, and Head of Digital Commercialization, Wealth and Personal Banking, HSBC. “We wish him all the best in his next chapter.”

Sartaj Sarkaria, the CMA’s Chief Diversity Officer and Chief of Staff, has been selected to act as Chief Operating Officer on an interim basis. Sarkaria has a strong background in governance, legal and human resources, and leads the CMA’s professional development programs. Along with other senior leadership team members, Sarkaria will ensure the continued delivery of outstanding products and services during the transition to new leadership.

The Board of Directors has formed a search committee and is working with Boyden to seek a replacement for CMA leadership.

John Wiltshire

About the Canadian Marketing Association
The CMA’s purpose is to embolden Canadian marketers to make a powerful impact on business in Canada. We provide opportunities for our members from coast to coast to develop professionally, to contribute to marketing thought leadership, to build strong networks, and to strengthen the regulatory climate for business success. Our Chartered Marketer (CM) designation signifies that recipients are highly qualified and up to date with best practices, as reflected in the Canadian Marketing Code of Ethics and Standards. We represent virtually all of Canada’s major business sectors, and all marketing disciplines, channels and technologies. Our Consumer Centre helps Canadians better understand their rights and obligations.