AUCKLAND, Today: WPP has named Cindy Rose as its new CEO, effective 1 September 2025. She’ll take over from Mark Read, who’s stepping down and will support the transition through to the end of the year.
Cindy’s a seasoned leader across tech, telco, media and entertainment, with major roles at Microsoft, Vodafone, Virgin Media and Disney.
She’s currently Microsoft’s Chief Operating Officer, Global Enterprise, helping top global companies harness AI and digital to transform their businesses.
Before that, she led Microsoft Western Europe and served as CEO of Microsoft UK. She’s also held senior roles at Vodafone, Virgin Media and Disney.
Cindy’s been on the WPP Board since 2019 and is involved with Imperial College and McLaren Racing. She holds US and UK citizenship and will split her time between London and New York. She received an OBE in 2019 for services to UK tech.
Philip Jansen, WPP Chair said, “Cindy is an outstanding and inspirational business leader with extensive experience at some of the world’s most recognised companies and a track record of growing large-scale businesses.
“Having worked closely with Cindy for the last six years, I am delighted to see her appointed as CEO of WPP.” – Mark Read
“She has supported the digital transformation of large enterprises around the world – including embracing AI to create new customer experiences, business models and revenue streams.
“Cindy’s appointment follows a thorough selection process that considered both internal and external candidates. As he hands over to Cindy, I would like to reiterate my sincere thanks to Mark for his tireless commitment during more than 30 years with WPP… I wish him all the very best for the future.”
Cindy Rose said, “WPP is a company I know and love – not only from my six years on the Board but as a client and partner for many years before that – and I couldn’t be happier or more excited to be appointed as CEO. I began my career in the creative industries and this feels like coming home.
“There are so many opportunities ahead for WPP. We have and continue to build market-leading AI capabilities, alongside an unrivalled reputation for creative excellence and a preeminent client list.
“WPP has the most brilliant, talented, creative people and I can’t wait to write the company’s next chapter together. I am grateful to Mark for his many contributions to the business over the years and I look forward to working together to ensure a smooth handover.”
Mark Read said, “Having worked closely with Cindy for the last six years, I am delighted to see her appointed as CEO of WPP. From her time on the Board, she has real insight into our business and knows many of our clients, people and partners around the world.
“She brings deep experience of technology and AI and its transformational impact on business, and has successfully run large global organisations with talent at their core. After seven years as CEO, I know that I am leaving WPP in excellent hands.”
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