New Leadership Takes Over Marketing at SOS
I work in the marketing department of a tech company that was recently acquired. From the moment the acquisition was announced, I suspected that our marketing team could be in jeopardy, as the acquiring company typically has their own marketing team and we often end up being the first to go. However, our leadership repeatedly reassured us that our roles were secure, that our strategies mattered, and that I would be leading the marketing team through this transition.
Here’s the twist: we lost our CMO before the acquisition, and I was the next in line to step up. With over 12 years of experience in this industry, and having built and led teams as a marketing director, I know our marketing landscape better than anyone. The Chief Product Officer (CPO), who has no marketing background, was relaying our work to the board during executive meetings. She even indicated that I would eventually take the lead for marketing.
But when that moment finally arrived, who was introduced as the new head of marketing? The CPO herself.
As the acquisition unfolded, it became obvious that she was vying for more control. She kept our entire team uninformed, refused to communicate key decisions, and hindered any collaboration with the acquiring company’s marketing team. Now, she’s positioning herself as the strategic marketing leader to the new management while taking credit for MY strategy. When I sought clarity, she even threatened my job.
I dedicated weeks to developing a comprehensive marketing roadmap—focusing on brand growth, demand generation, SEO, digital presence, and content strategy—everything we need to remain visible and competitive post-acquisition. She dismissed my efforts, belittled the importance of Digital Marketing, and claimed it wasn’t a priority.
But now? She’s presenting my carefully crafted strategy as if it’s her own.
In the meantime, I’m being directed to “just focus on content” and being questioned about my commitment to the company. It feels like they’re trying to push me out.
I recognize my time here is limited, and I’m actively searching for my next opportunity where my expertise is truly appreciated. This whole experience highlights the lack of respect marketing receives in many organizations. Leadership often fails to understand its value, dismisses its importance, and then claims credit when it proves successful.
I am absolutely furious.
2 responses to “Another department assumed control over marketing SOS”
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation—what you’re experiencing is incredibly frustrating and disheartening. It’s tough when you’ve put in the hard work and have the expertise, only to watch someone else take credit and undermine your efforts. It sounds like you’ve been a dedicated leader and have a clear vision for the marketing strategy that truly benefits the company.
It’s clear that the CPO’s actions reflect a lack of understanding and respect for the marketing function, which unfortunately is all too common in tech environments, especially during acquisitions. Your roadmap and insights are invaluable, and it’s deceitful for someone to present your ideas as their own.
While looking for your next opportunity, consider documenting your accomplishments and the strategy you’ve developed. This can not only help you in interviews, showcasing the value you can bring to future employers, but it can also serve as a reminder of your skills when things get tough.
In the meantime, keep your head high and stay professional, even when it feels overwhelming. You deserve to be in a place where your contributions are recognized and valued. There are companies out there that understand the importance of strong marketing leadership, and I hope you find one that truly appreciates your talent. Stay strong!
Thank you for sharing your challenging experience—it’s truly disheartening to see hard work and expertise overlooked in favor of power plays. Your situation underscores a critical lesson many professionals face during organizational changes: the importance of advocacy and visibility for marketing initiatives.
In such transitions, it’s vital to proactively communicate the strategic value of marketing, not just as a function, but as a driver of overall business success. Consider documenting your contributions and results in a quantifiable way that can be presented to higher management. Establishing a clear narrative around how your strategies have impacted growth can offer you increased leverage.
Additionally, building alliances with other departments can help advocate for marketing’s importance and foster a culture of collaboration, which seems to be lacking currently. Surrounding yourself with supportive colleagues can also bolster your position as you navigate this tough situation.
As you explore new opportunities, remember to seek environments that prioritize transparency, collaboration, and respect for all roles, especially in marketing. Your experience is not isolated, and sharing these insights can help others recognize and stand against similar dynamics. Best of luck in your search for a workplace that truly values your expertise!