Ad Age’s annual 40 Under 40 list is here, and it’s full of rising leaders and innovative creatives who are taking the marketing world by storm. During an autumn rife with layoffs, budget cuts and an industry directive to “do more with less,” these individuals are rising to the occasion, proving they have the creative chops to succeed.

A marketer at Priceline was behind the travel brand’s crafty switch to a Super Bowl campaign with hidden giveaways on social media from a pricy Big Game TV ad. A Ukrainian ad exec is using his agency to help in the war effort against Russia. And a former Unilever intern has risen through the ranks to head of innovation at SheaMoisture because he has an eye for “underdeveloped areas that could be growth pockets.”

They’re alongside honorees from marketing giants such as Amazon, Disney and Chipotle, as well as startups including Oatly and Mejuri.

Chosen from hundreds of nominations, many of these rising stars are focused on improving the industry by engaging underserved consumers. An autistic Mindshare executive is marketing a dating app for people with autism, while a VP at Group Black is working to boost ad investments in Black-owned media.

Read about each of the 2023 Ad Age 40 Under 40 honorees 

No matter how these 40 individuals found success—some have been promoted from within while others are in new positions—they are all finding success, fostering change and ready for whatever the future will bring.

Here is more on the 40 Under 40 list and judging process.

What are the qualifications for 40 Under 40?

Everyone honored on this year’s list is under the age of 40 on Sept. 18, 2023. They have all made significant contributions to the worlds of media, advertising or marketing within the last year. The goal is to identify those leaders who are reshaping marketing and making an impact at a company or business. International entrants are accepted.

How are the honorees for 40 Under 40 chosen?

A selection committee of Ad Age editors and reporters read nominations and make final decisions on the 40 executives to include.

How many nominations were submitted this year?

This year, roughly 600 nominations were submitted.

Who was on last year’s list?

Last year’s list included executives from companies such as Mattel, Procter & Gamble and McDonald's.

How can I nominate someone for 40 Under 40 next year?

Nominations must be submitted online at AdAge.com/40u40. They typically open in early May. There is a cost to enter.

Here is our full list of FAQs regarding nominations.

See all 2023 40 under 40 honorees here.