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yesterday

WPP Selects Microsoft Executive Cindy Rose as CEO to Drive AI Transformation

Her September start follows a profit warning alongside a tumbling share price, signaling WPP’s bet on AI expertise to reverse revenue declines.

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Cindy Rose said: “I couldn’t be happier or more excited to be appointed as CEO.”
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Overview

  • Cindy Rose will replace Mark Read as CEO on September 1, becoming the first woman to lead a global advertising holding company.
  • Rose brings experience as Microsoft’s chief operating officer for global enterprise and former head of UK and Western Europe operations, plus a 15-year tenure at Walt Disney’s interactive media division.
  • Under Mark Read’s leadership, WPP’s market value fell by two-thirds and its share price hit a 16-year low after facing AI-driven ad automation and major client losses.
  • A recent profit warning blaming a tough economic backdrop triggered a 19% drop in WPP’s shares and prompted additional cost-cutting measures.
  • Board chair Philip Jansen said Rose’s digital transformation and AI credentials will be “hugely valuable” as WPP seeks to rebuild growth and stabilize its London and New York operations.