Creative work is not the CEO's expertise !! Yes the CEO should be brought in at key points during the journey... not to micromanage ... but to collaborate. The brand messaging/voice must be omni present in every aspect of the business. The CEO needs to respect this and ensure that everyone is aligned.

There is no black-and-white answer to this question. It depends on who the CEO is. Do they come from a creative background? Is the idea good? Yes, I agree that, for the most part, the CEO is not one to own this as the CEO's fundamental role is vision, managing the team and shareholders as well as keeping cash flow positive, but as with my company, I am the CEO and Chief Creative Officer, so I would be the one owning this anyway.

We have a direct conversation. The CEO has a significant part in the brand’s ethos, but it’s not the only part (at least not for long in my experience). Having a powerful, authentic brand platform relies on an integrated strategy that provides space for many voices. I would guide them back to the principle that success needs space for others in the organization and most importantly, the audience. If they can’t see their voice as part of the narrative then they will find a brand where they can. I would share a few household name brands that are no more because they made a similar missteps - I would not be the only voice in this conversation.

Conversating is the best method, but here's what I would recommened. • Collaborate with the CEO to align their vision with marketing expertise • Explain the importance of consistent brand messaging across all channels • Propose a balanced approach that incorporates CEO input and marketing best practices • Highlight how strategic brand messaging impacts business goals and customer perception • Suggest creating brand guidelines together to ensure cohesive communication • Offer data and examples of successful brand messaging strategies • Focus on shared goals of strengthening the brand and driving business growth • Be open to the CEO's ideas while advocating for proven marketing principles

Challenging your CEO isn’t bad at all. It’s actually why you typically are hired. He/She may have a solid idea or even a great understanding of marketing but all ideas should be challenged. Even if it’s just to ensure it’s well thought out.

Sounds like the writing on the wall for your job! One of the most important aspects of a brand marketer is ensuring everyone is in the journey with you, soliciting feedback, providing research, client personas, etc… The CEO doesn’t trust you anymore because you failed to provide the mechanisms for trust. Secondly, my guess would be that the company is in to trouble, and needs a pivot or market adjustment. You should have been the one sniffing that, frankly. That’s exciting, but it may not be the place for you anymore?

If you believe the CEO's messaging aligns with the brand's values and goals, comply. However, if you have concerns that the messaging may be detrimental, respectfully challenge their decision, presenting data and insights to support your argument. Ultimately, the goal is to collaborate and find a solution that benefits both the CEO and the brand.

Treat the CEO like you would treat a client: - Facilitate a strong strategic process - Understand who the key stakeholders are who have a say in the project - Work collaboratively with all of these key stakeholders and make sure all their perspectives are taken into account - Guide the process towards the best solution and defend great work if it's not be getting the recognition and consideration it deserves - Have honest conversations about roles and responsibilities in the final decision if there is disagreement - And realize at the end of the day, you have to get the CEO's buy-in and approval for the project to be successful

If the CEO wants to take control of brand messaging, I would first listen to their ideas and understand their vision. Then, I would respectfully share my expertise and explain the importance of consistency in brand messaging. If needed, I’d suggest a collaborative approach where we can combine their input with the team's insights to ensure the brand remains strong and effective.