Juries reflect global creative leadership

Crucial to the effective function of Cannes Lions is the remarkable roster of industry leaders and experts who give up their time to judge the work. This year’s juries reflect the growing diversity of the voices shaping the global creative industry, with perspectives from independent agencies and brands across sectors. Among those making their jury debut is AXA, following its success in 2025, winning 13 Lions. The line-up also includes increased representation from Africa, Pacific, MENA and LatAm, including first time jurors from the Dominican Republic and Venezuela.

Brannelly noted that the composition of this year’s juries “speaks to how creativity is evolving — it’s becoming more interconnected, more diverse and more influential across every part of business. With more markets than ever represented and a growing number of leaders from independent agencies and brands, this year’s line-up will ensure the work is judged through a truly global and contemporary lens.”

Among the Jury Presidents in 2026 is Chaka Sobhani, global chief creative officer, TBWA\Worldwide, Global, who will lead the decision-making process for the Dan Wieden Titanium Lions. In a historic first, Lebanon is represented on the Titanium Jury. There is also a strong line-up of women Presidents, including Sarah Lemarié, chief strategy officer, Publicis (Creative Strategy); Shannon Washington, chief creative officer and managing partner, 11 Ounces (Entertainment Lions for Sport); Pip Smart, executive producer and

partner, Revolver (Film Craft); Dana Tahir, chief executive officer, HAVAS Red Middle East and Egypt (PR); and Jessica Apellaniz, chief creative officer, Wieden+Kennedy Mexico

(Print & Publishing).

Cook stressed that “the impact of the Cannes Lions Jury can’t be underestimated. Their time and expertise in recognising groundbreaking work sets the global creative benchmark for the year ahead and provides a view of the future shape of creativity. Welcoming new expert voices across a breadth of markets and disciplines, we are delighted to bring together some of the industry’s most well-respected leaders to define the creative standards driving our industry forward.”