Cindy Rose, a senior executive at Microsoft, has been named the incoming Chief Executive Officer of WPP, set to succeed Mark Read on September 1.
The announcement follows closely on the heels of a sharp downward revision in WPP’s financial outlook, which saw its stock tumble by 19%, hitting its lowest point in 16 years. Although the leadership transition was expected later in the year, WPP expedited the appointment just a day after issuing its profit warning.
Rose currently serves as Microsoft’s Chief Operating Officer for global enterprise clients, focusing on digital innovation and AI-driven transformation strategies. Over the years, she has held leadership roles at Microsoft UK, Microsoft Western Europe, and earlier in her career, at Disney, Vodafone, and Virgin Media.
Having joined WPP’s board as a non-executive director in 2019, Rose is already well-acquainted with the firm’s operations and ongoing industry pressures.
Philip Jansen, WPP’s chairman, praised Rose’s leadership capabilities, calling her “an exceptional and forward-thinking executive” and emphasizing her experience in scaling global businesses. “Her insight into digital technologies and client needs will be instrumental as WPP navigates through industry disruption and economic headwinds,” he said.
Jansen also noted that the CEO selection process included both internal and external candidates, ultimately leading to Rose’s appointment due to her strong familiarity with WPP’s business and clients.
Mark Read, who has spent three decades at WPP, will step down officially in September but stay on through the end of the year to ensure a smooth leadership transition.
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