The Marketing CEO: Why Leadership Now Starts with Brand

In this episode of Adspeak by ADWEEK, host Rob Klara sits down with a panel of leaders redefining the modern CEO role. Featuring Bing Chen (CEO and Co-Founder, Gold House), Jessica Schinazi (CEO, Away), and Artis Stevens (President and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America), the conversation explores why today’s CEOs must lead as marketers first. They unpack shifting from service to solutions, building agile organizations, decentralizing brand ownership, and using AI as an accelerator, while balancing authenticity, purpose, and leadership in an increasingly complex business landscape.

What You'll Learn:

• How to Transition from Service to Solutions Positioning
• Why Your January Strategic Playbook Won't Survive Q2.
• The CMO-to-CEO Pipeline is the Strongest Talent Path
• How to Decentralize Brand Governance Across 10,000+ Global Employees
• The Visibility Trade-Off: Personal Brand Authenticity vs. Organizational Expectations
• AI as an Accelerator, Not a Replacement for Human Connection

About the Guests:

Bing Chen is a creator economy pioneer, investor, and CEO and Co-Founder of Gold House, a platform shaping culture to unlock global opportunity. He also serves as Managing Director of AU Holdings, backing multicultural creators and communities. Previously, as YouTube’s Global Head of Creator Development, he helped architect today’s influencer ecosystem. A recognized global leader and board advisor to companies like Oura and Musely, his work bridges culture, media, and innovation across industries.

Jessica Schinazi is a senior executive with deep expertise across luxury goods, beauty, and consumer electronics, leading high-growth categories with full P&L ownership. As CEO of Away, she combines digital innovation with strong brand-building strategies to drive profitable growth. Known for scaling businesses through strategic transformation and sharp commercial execution, she brings a disciplined approach to team leadership, business development, and delivering sustained, high-impact results in competitive global markets.

Artis Stevens is President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, where he has more than doubled revenue and expanded mentorship access to underserved communities nationwide. A leading voice in youth empowerment, he has positioned the organization among the most trusted nonprofits in the U.S., securing historic funding and driving large-scale impact. Recognized by TIME and ForbesBLK, Stevens is known for transforming mission-driven organizations through innovative partnerships, cultural leadership, and a bold vision for scalable social change.

Guest Resources:

• Bing Chen on LinkedIn
• Gold House Website
• Jessica Schinazi on LinkedIn
• Away Website
• Artis Stevens on LinkedIn
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Website

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