New CEO takes charge September 1, 2025, succeeding Mark Read
WPP plc has appointed Cindy Rose as its next Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2025. She succeeds Mark Read, who will step down but remain on board through the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.
Currently the Chief Operating Officer, Global Enterprise at Microsoft, Rose has overseen digital and AI-driven transformations for major corporations. Prior to that, she served as President of Microsoft Western Europe and CEO of Microsoft UK. Her earlier roles include leadership positions at Vodafone, Virgin Media, and 15 years at The Walt Disney Company as Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Disney Interactive Media Group, EMEA. She also joined WPP’s board as a non-executive director in 2019.
Educated at Columbia University and New York Law School, Rose is an advisory board member at Imperial College Business School and McLaren Racing, and will be based in both London and New York.
Philip Jansen, WPP Chair, commented:
“Cindy is an outstanding leader with proven success at global organisations, especially in AI and digital transformation. As a board member, she understands our business deeply and is perfectly placed to steer WPP through industry changes.”
Jansen also thanked Mark Read:
“Mark’s seven years as CEO have modernised and transformed WPP-we are immensely grateful for his contributions.”
Commenting on her appointment, Cindy Rose said:
“WPP is like coming home-I began my career in the creative industries and am thrilled by our AI capabilities, creative talent, and client base. I’m grateful to Mark and look forward to building on his legacy.”
Read, in turn, expressed confidence in Rose:
“Having worked with Cindy for six years, I know she has the insight, experience, and leadership to guide WPP’s next chapter.”
Rose’s appointment marks a new era for WPP as it continues its digital-led transformation under experienced and visionary leadership.
