The Stars Are Calling
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Victoria Best, Principal Global Brand Marketing Manager, Skyscanner and Chair of the Star Awards 2026 on celebrating Scotland’s marketing community
Every year, The Marketing Society Star Awards give us a moment to step back and celebrate what makes Scotland’s marketing community so special. Not just the work itself, but the energy, curiosity and ambition that drive it. As we open entries for the 2026 awards, I’m reminded of why these accolades matter so much - they shine a light on the people and ideas that keep our industry moving forward.
This year’s campaign, The Stars Are Calling, does exactly that. It encourages us all to pause for a moment, look up from the day-to-day and reconnect with the ideas that have shaped our proudest achievements. It is an invitation to gather our industry’s teams and partners, think boldly, and bring their very best work into the spotlight.
Celebrating Every Corner of Our Industry
One of the things I love most about the Star Awards is the breadth of talent they showcase. From students taking their first steps into marketing, to rising stars already making an impact, to the leaders who shape our strategic direction, the awards celebrate all of it. They bring together agencies and client-side teams as genuine partners. That spirit of collaboration has always been at the heart of our industry, and it is certainly at the heart of these awards.
New Categories for a New Era
Our sector never stands still and neither do the Star Awards. For 2026, we are introducing several new categories that better reflect how the field is evolving:
• Small Budget, Big Impact
• AI, Automation and Emerging Tech
• B2B Marketing
We have also refreshed long-standing categories such as Design, Creativity and Craft, Digital First, and Leisure and Lifestyle.
Every entry will be assessed through our transparent and robust judging process, with both Future Leaders and Leader Members of The Marketing Society taking part. Standards rise each year, making a Gold, Silver or Bronze Star a true mark of distinction. Securing a shortlist position is also something to be genuinely proud of.
Dates to Keep in Mind
31 December 2025 – Last day to claim the Early Bird 10% discount.
30 January 2026 – Deadline to sign up as a judge.
12 February 2026 – Entry deadline at 23:59. Late submissions will be accepted with an additional fee.
18 June 2026 – Star Awards Gala Dinner at the Corn Exchange in Edinburgh.
I look forward to seeing the talent and creativity that will set new standards across our community.
Full details, criteria and supporting guidance are available on the Star Awards website here
About our Partner The Marketing Society Scotland
The Marketing Society Scotland's vision is to build a vibrant marketing community renowned for enlightened thinking, innovation and creativity.
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