Jon Cook to leave WPP after three decades

WPP has not yet announced further changes to the leadership structure of WPP Creative, while Cook has not disclosed his plans after leaving the company.

Jon Cook, Global CEO of VML and CEO of WPP Creative, is set to leave WPP in March 2027 after three decades with VML. Eric Campbell, currently CEO of VML and WPP Creative in North America, will succeed him as Global CEO of VML.

Cook will remain in both leadership positions through March 2027 to support the transition.

Jon Cook to leave WPP after three decades at VML

Cook joined VML when it was an emerging digital agency in Kansas City and spent three decades helping develop it into a global creative network. In 2024, he led the combination of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson to create VML, bringing together brand experience, customer experience, commerce, data and enterprise technology across more than 55 markets.

In February 2026, Cook also became CEO of WPP Creative, overseeing a portfolio that includes VML, Ogilvy, Grey, Burson, AKQA, Landor and Design Bridge & Partners. WPP introduced the unit as part of its Elevate28 strategy.

Under Cook, VML received industry recognition across creative, effectiveness, commerce and customer experience. The network was ranked second Creative Network of the Year at Cannes Lions 2026 and received the most Gold Lions of any network. It was also named Campaign's 2026 Global Agency of the Year.

Eric Campbell takes over VML global leadership in 2027

Cindy Rose, CEO, WPP: "Jon’s contribution to VML, WPP and our entire industry has been extraordinary. He is an exceptional builder – of enduring client partnerships, world-class agencies and a culture built on generosity, optimism and genuine care for people. I am deeply grateful for everything he has done for WPP, and I appreciate his commitment to partner with us through March 2027 to ensure our teams, clients, and new leaders maintain their incredible momentum."

Jon Cook: "This has been one of the hardest decisions I have ever made in my life. But after three decades of pouring everything I have into this agency and all of WPP, it is time to build something new. VML and WPP Creative are operating from positions of tremendous strength and this is the right moment for other voices to lead. I am immensely proud of our teams, the iconic work we produce with our clients and the one-of-a-kind culture we have built. I look forward to working closely with Cindy and the WPP and VML leadership teams over the coming months to execute a thoughtful transition."

Campbell will become Global CEO of VML in March 2027 while retaining his role as CEO of WPP Creative North America. He has been with VML for more than 25 years and has held positions including President of VML, Global President of VMLY&R, Global Chief Client Officer and CEO of VML North America.

WPP prepares further changes across creative leadership

Campbell will work with Cook immediately on the transition of global responsibilities. His appointment extends a leadership tenure that has included responsibility for client relationships, operations and the agency's culture.

Cindy Rose: "Eric has been central to VML’s success for more than 25 years and has helped shape the client relationships, operational strength and culture that make the agency so distinctive. He knows this business deeply, he understands what makes VML special, and he has the trust of teams and clients around the world. I am delighted that he will lead VML into its next era, working closely with Jon and the leadership team to ensure a seamless transition and continued momentum for our clients and people."

WPP said it will provide further details on the leadership structure across WPP Creative. Cook has not announced his plans following his departure.

www.wpp.com

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