WPP appoints Microsoft executive Cindy Rose as its new CEO, replacing Mark Read. A major shift as the ad giant focuses on AI and digital growth.
WPP, one of the world’s largest advertising and communications companies, has announced a major leadership change. Cindy Rose, a highly respected executive from Microsoft, will become WPP’s new Chief Executive Officer on September 1, 2025, succeeding Mark Read. Read will remain with the company until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition.
Who Is Cindy Rose?
Cindy Rose brings decades of experience from leading roles at global technology and media companies:
- Current Role: Chief Operating Officer, Global Enterprise at Microsoft, where she helped some of the world’s largest companies embrace digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
- Previous Leadership: President of Microsoft Western Europe and CEO of Microsoft UK, making her one of the most senior women in tech globally.
- Other Experience: Senior positions at Disney, Virgin Media, and Vodafone, where she drove innovation and digital entertainment strategies.
- WPP Board Experience: Non-executive director on WPP’s board since 2019, giving her valuable insight into the company’s challenges and opportunities.
Why WPP Chose Rose
WPP is facing a challenging period. The company recently issued a profit warning, saw its share price hit multi-year lows, and has underperformed compared to rivals like Publicis and Omnicom. The board believes Rose’s deep expertise in technology, AI, and digital growth is exactly what WPP needs to reinvent itself and regain momentum.
Key reasons for her appointment:
- Tech Leadership: Rose’s background in digital transformation and AI aligns with WPP’s push to become more data-driven and agile.
- Industry Knowledge: Her years as a board member mean she already understands WPP’s business and culture.
- Global Perspective: She will split her time between London and New York, reflecting WPP’s global reach and the importance of the U.S. market.
Breaking New Ground
Cindy Rose will be the first woman to lead WPP in its history. She will receive a base salary of £1.25 million, plus bonuses and equity incentives, in line with WPP’s executive compensation policies.
Leadership Endorsements
Mark Read, Outgoing CEO: Expressed confidence in her leadership, calling her “a proven innovator and strategist” who is well-positioned to write WPP’s next chapter
Philip Jansen, WPP Chairman: Praised Rose’s “vision and skills to lead WPP into the future,” emphasizing her track record in growing large-scale businesses and driving enterprise transformation.
