WPP announces board change

Andrew Scott will step down as Chief Operating Officer and from the Board of WPP at the end of the year. He will work with incoming CEO Cindy Rose during the transition and will continue as Senior Advisor for a period to support strategy and the handover of responsibilities.

Scott joined WPP in 1999 as Director of Corporate Development and later became Chief Operating Officer for Europe before being appointed global Chief Operating Officer in 2018. In 2023, he joined the company’s Board.

During his career at WPP, Scott played a key role in shaping the group’s development through acquisitions and disposals. He led the company’s M&A activity, overseeing deals that contributed to its global structure. Recent acquisitions include Satalia and InfoSum, strengthening WPP’s capabilities in AI, data and technology. He also managed major disposals such as the sale of 60 percent of Kantar to Bain Capital and the sale of FGS Global to KKR.

Mark Read, outgoing CEO, WPP: “Few people have done more than Andrew to shape WPP and to drive its success over the last three decades. He has been a brilliant partner to me and the wider leadership team throughout and has made a tremendous contribution to WPP in his most recent role as Chief Operating Officer.”

Scott will remain involved as Senior Advisor to ensure a smooth transition. His departure coincides with the change in leadership as Cindy Rose prepares to take over as CEO.

Andrew Scott: “After 27 years at WPP, and at a time of transition for the business, it feels like the right moment to make this change. I’ve known Cindy for a long time and worked closely with her on the Board of WPP, and I’m excited for the future of WPP under her leadership. I’d also like to thank Mark and the rest of the team for all the support they’ve given me over the years.”

www.wpp.com

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