Catalyst Columnist Application for 2025
The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) is on the lookout for a vibrant and inspiring young marketer to become a columnist for our exclusive member-only magazine, Catalyst, for the 2026 issues.
We’re seeking a fresh voice, someone at the start of their career who understands the challenges young marketers face today and stays updated with the latest marketing news and trends.
Our ideal columnist will discuss predictions, trends, challenges, and priorities for young marketers. What excites you about marketing? What frustrates you? Which campaigns are catching your eye? Who are the influencers and brands to watch? If you have the answers, we want to hear from you!
This is an opportunity to represent youth marketers and as such applicants must be between 18-25.
Responsibilities:
• Write four short columns (500-550 words) for each quarter (January, April, July, October).
Benefits:
• Share your insights alongside major brands, in front of thousands of marketing professionals.
• Gain exposure and recognition for your views and expertise.
• Win a year's CIM membership (if you're already a member, we'll cover your renewal)
How to apply
To apply, please complete the form below and submit a 550-word column focusing on influencer marketing. We’re looking for fresh ideas, original insights, and an engaging writing style that captures your unique perspective. If selected, your entry will be published as your first magazine column. Remember to include a recent high-resolution headshot with your submission!
Good luck!
Before submitting your entry, ensure you read our terms and conditions listed below.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be aged between 18-25 years old.
- The competition is open to global entries, but submissions and columns must be in written in English (UK).
- Employees of Catalyst magazine and their immediate family members are not eligible to participate.
Submission Guidelines:
- Each applicant must include an original article of 550 words on influencer marketing and acknowledge AI tools are not to be used to write on your behalf.
- Submissions must be written in English (UK) and formatted as a Word document or PDF.
- Each applicant must include a recent, high-resolution headshot which will be used to create their author profile should they win the competition.
- All entries must be submitted via our submission portal by Sunday 23 November.
Selection Process:
- Entries will be judged by the CIM team, based on creativity, originality, and writing style.
- The decision of the CIM team is final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
Winner Announcement:
- The winner will be notified in early-December.
- The winner of the competition will have their first article published in Catalyst in January 2026.
General Conditions:
- By entering the competition, applicants agree to abide by these terms and conditions.
- Catalyst and the CIM team reserve the right to disqualify any entry that does not comply with these terms.
- While we appreciate all applications, we regret that we are unable to provide feedback to all applicants due to the volume of entries.
Rights and Usage:
- By submitting an entry, applicants grant Catalyst and the CIM team the right to publish and use the article in any media.
- The winner agrees to participate in promotional activities related to the competition.
Privacy:
- Personal information collected from applicants will be used solely for the purpose of this competition and will not be shared with third parties unless otherwise specified.
Related content
Explore related content and courses for further insight
