Erin Oles (Salesforce): Why Brand, Creativity & Human Connection Matter More Than Ever

What does the future of marketing look like when AI is transforming how customers discover brands, make decisions, and connect with businesses? And how can marketers embrace this shift while keeping human connection at the heart of everything they do? This week, Jim is joined by Erin Oles, President and Chief Marketing Officer of Salesforce, for a special conversation recorded at the Salesforce Podcast Studio during Advertising Week New York. Fresh off Salesforce's annual Dreamforce event and stepping into her expanded leadership role, Erin shares her perspective on one of the most exciting transformations happening in marketing today. From deploying AI agents across Salesforce's own marketing organization to rethinking the traditional marketing funnel, Erin explains why the future isn't about replacing human creativity, but empowering marketers to do more meaningful work. Erin also reflects on her unconventional journey to the CMO role, from studying hospitality and beginning her career in sales to leading some of the world's largest corporate experiences. She shares lessons on building high-performing teams, embracing failure, staying close to customers, and the leadership philosophy she's learned from Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff. Jim and Erin explore why brand values, creativity, judgment, and human connection may become even more important as AI continues to reshape the industry. A thoughtful conversation about embracing change, leading with curiosity, and remembering that great marketing has always been about people. — Meet The CMO Podcast On the Road The CMO Podcast will be on the road throughout early 2027, capturing conversations with the leaders shaping the future of marketing, leadership, and business. If you'll be attending one of these events, we'd love to connect. Let us know! ANA Masters of Marketing | October 20–22 CES | January 5-7 — Interested in partnering with The CMO Podcast?! Looking ahead to the rest of 2026 and into 2027, we're partnering with brands to create executive content platforms that extend far beyond a single event. From pop-up podcast studios and live recordings to executive roundtables, keynote conversations, and bespoke thought leadership programs, we work with partners to build meaningful experiences that connect with senior marketing leaders. Whether you'd like to partner with us at one of the industry's biggest marketing events or create a custom experience designed specifically for your brand, we'd love to explore what's possible. Reach out to learn how we can build something together. Email us at podcasts@vyve.co — Produced by vYve The CMO Podcast is proudly produced by vYve Production, a full-service production and content studio specializing in podcasts, executive storytelling, branded content, and live experiences. vYve is a community of ambitious leaders dedicated to unlocking what's next in business and in life. Through executive coaching, transformative experiences, strategic content, and communities like The CMO Podcast , vYve helps entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and teams grow their businesses, strengthen their leadership, and build meaningful connections that last. Learn more about vYve and The CMO Podcast community at www.vyve.co . See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .