WPP Names Microsoft Executive Cindy Rose CEO Amid Profit Warning, AI Challenges

WPP has appointed Cindy Rose, a senior Microsoft executive and WPP board member since 2019, as its new CEO starting September 1, following a significant profit warning that caused shares to plummet to a 16-year low. Rose, who brings extensive experience in technology, AI, and digital transformation from her roles at Microsoft, Vodafone, Virgin Media, and Disney, faces the challenge of reversing WPP's declining revenues and client losses amid a difficult trading environment and increased competition. The advertising industry is undergoing rapid change due to AI innovations that allow clients to produce more marketing in-house, pressing agencies like WPP to adapt their models to maintain relevance and justify fees. WPP’s current CEO, Mark Read, who is stepping down early, acknowledged that recent performance was worse than expected and emphasized the need for a turnaround under Rose’s leadership. Rose’s appointment is seen as an opportunity to leverage her tech and AI expertise to guide WPP through fundamental changes and macroeconomic uncertainty, as the group aims to rebuild growth and address business model disruptions. Despite short-term challenges, Rose expressed enthusiasm about leading WPP, highlighting her long-standing connection to the company and the creative industries.