Ogilvy announces APAC leadership changes

Ogilvy has announced a series of leadership changes across its global and Asia Pacific operations as long-serving executive Kent Wertime prepares to retire at the end of June.

Wertime will step down from his positions as Co-CEO of Ogilvy APAC, Global Chief Operating Officer of Ogilvy and Global Chief Executive Officer of Ogilvy One. At the same time, Chris Reitermann will transition from his role as Co-CEO of Ogilvy APAC to focus exclusively on his responsibilities as CEO of WPP Greater China.

End of a decade-long APAC partnership

Kent Wertime and Chris Reitermann have jointly led Ogilvy APAC since 2016, overseeing the agency through a period of growth, digital transformation and changing market dynamics across the region.

Following their departures from the regional leadership structure, responsibilities for APAC will be assumed by Ogilvy’s regional leadership team, working alongside local market leaders to maintain continuity across the network.

Ogilvy said successors for Kent Wertime’s global positions as Global COO and Global CEO of Ogilvy One will be announced at a later date.

Nearly three decades at Ogilvy

Kent Wertime joined Ogilvy in 1999 as CEO of Ogilvy Interactive Asia Pacific, taking a leadership role in the agency’s early digital transformation efforts.

Over the following years, he assumed a series of regional and global leadership positions, culminating in his simultaneous oversight of multiple business units across the network. Beyond his executive responsibilities, Wertime has also been recognised for his work as a mentor, writer and advocate for innovation at the intersection of culture and technology.

Laurent Ezekiel, Global Chief Executive Officer of Ogilvy: "Kent is a true Ogilvy giant. Over his 27 years with the agency, he has demonstrated a rare combination of vision, sharp commercial acumen, and steady leadership. From pioneering our early digital transformation in Asia to simultaneously holding three of the most demanding roles in our global network, Kent’s impact on our business and our clients is immeasurable. We are immensely grateful for his dedication, his wisdom, and the incredible legacy of mentorship he leaves behind. We wish him the absolute best in a very well-deserved retirement."

Reitermann focuses on Greater China role

Chris Reitermann will continue leading WPP Greater China, concentrating on growth and integration across one of the group’s largest markets.

Laurent Ezekiel: "We also want to thank Chris for his outstanding leadership as Co-CEO of APAC alongside Kent. Under their joint stewardship, our APAC network has flourished as a creative and economic powerhouse. While Chris moves away from his Ogilvy regional role, we are thrilled that WPP Greater China will continue to benefit from his exceptional leadership, focus, and drive."

Kent Wertime: "It has been the privilege of a lifetime to help lead this incredible agency across both its global and regional frontiers. I have had the honor of working alongside some of the most brilliant minds in our industry worldwide. I want to thank Chris, my partner of ten years, for a shared journey in Asia Pacific filled with trust, mutual respect, and plenty of laughs. My deepest gratitude goes to our clients and the entire Ogilvy family globally and in APAC. I leave with absolute confidence in the talent, character, and ambition of this global network as it steps into its next chapter."

Regional team to oversee transition

Ogilvy said its regional leadership team will oversee APAC operations during the transition period, ensuring continued collaboration across markets and maintaining support for clients throughout the region.

Chris Reitermann: "Leading Ogilvy APAC alongside Kent has been an extraordinary journey. Our partnership has been built on deep trust and friendship, and I could not have asked for a better partner to navigate the highs and challenges of this dynamic region. As I transition to focus entirely on driving WPP’s growth and integration in Greater China, I am incredibly proud of what we have built together. I know the APAC region is in great hands with Kyoko and our regional leadership team, and I wish Kent nothing but happiness in his retirement."

www.ogilvy.com

Follow Marketing Report on LinkedIn