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Marla Kaplowitz

Independent Board Director & Advisor

Championing the advertising industry's evolution as a transformative trade association leader and media executive

Thought LeaderNew York, New York, United States30+ years in industry

Last updated Jun 11, 2026 by ATDb automated enrichment

Bio

Marla Kaplowitz served as President & CEO of the American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A's) from 2017 to 2025, leading the industry's foremost trade organization through a period of significant transformation in advertising and media. Prior to the 4A's, she was President of MEC North America (now Wavemaker) and held senior leadership roles at Mediaedge:cia. Since departing the 4A's, she has transitioned to a portfolio career as an independent board director for Penn Entertainment, Butler/Till, and #paid, and serves as a strategic advisor to LoopMe.

Previous Roles

President & CEO

American Association of Advertising Agencies (4A's) (2017–2025)

President

MEC North America (now Wavemaker) (2013–2017)

Senior Leadership

Mediaedge:cia (2000s–2013)

Expertise
Advertising Industry Policy & AdvocacyMedia Agency OperationsBrand SafetyDiversity, Equity & Inclusion in AdvertisingAgency-Client RelationshipsMedia Planning & BuyingTrade Organization LeadershipProgrammatic Advertising
Education
  • Bachelor's Degree, University at Albany, State University of New York
Notable Achievements
  • Served as President & CEO of the 4A's from 2017 to 2025, stewarding the industry's leading advertising trade organization through major digital and cultural transformation
  • Led the 4A's through significant industry challenges including brand safety, data privacy, and workforce diversity initiatives
  • Previously served as President of MEC North America (now Wavemaker), one of the world's largest media agencies
  • Transitioned to a portfolio career as independent board director for Penn Entertainment, Butler/Till, and #paid, and strategic advisor to LoopMe
Awards
Recognized among leading executives in advertising trade and agency leadership
Speaking Topics
Future of the Advertising Agency ModelBrand Safety and Media QualityDiversity and Inclusion in AdvertisingAgency-Client RelationshipsIndustry Standards and Self-RegulationMedia Transformation and Digital Disruption
Publications
  • Frequent contributor and quoted expert in Ad Age, Adweek, Campaign US, and The Wall Street Journal on advertising industry topics
Board Memberships
Penn EntertainmentButler/Till#paid
Advisory Roles
LoopMe
Marla Kaplowitz — Independent Board Director & Advisor | ATDb