The 4A's (American Association of Advertising Agencies), today announced that CEO Marla Kaplowitz will be stepping down as of May 30, 2025. The Board of Directors and its Search Committee will now begin looking for her successor.   

2025 will mark eight years for Kaplowitz at the helm of the organization.

During her tenure, she implemented initiatives including the addition of the annual Member Value Report, partnering with the ANA to create multiple joint initiatives, moving MAIP (Multicultural Advertising Intern Program) and high school programs into the 4A's Foundation and creating the Advertiser Protection Bureau, bringing leading media agencies together to focus on brand safety and suitability.  

Kaplowitz noted that her original plan was to lead the group for five years. “The fact that I've been here for what will be eight years is testament to the team at the 4A's, the board and especially the members,” she said. “I have truly appreciated the experience and learned and grown significantly.”  

Following her departure, Kaplowitz will take on advisory work as well as continue to expand and serve on corporate boards.

She currently serves on the board of public company Penn Entertainment, chairing the nominating and governance committee and serving on the compensation committee, and serves on several industry boards including BBB National Programs, VoxComm, and Ad Council. 

"Marla has made a tremendous impact on the 4A's and our industry and while we are sorry to see her go, she has given us the time to find the right successor," said Abbey Klaassen, chair of the 4A's board and CEO, denstu Creative U.S.