JON COOK TO DEPART WPP AFTER THREE DECADES OF LEADERSHIP

WPP has announced that Jon Cook, Global CEO of VML and CEO of WPP Creative, will step down in March 2027 after three decades of transformative leadership. Cook, who spearheaded VML’s global rise and WPP Creative’s launch, will be succeeded by Eric Campbell, ensuring a seamless transition.

Jon Cook, one of the most influential figures in modern advertising, will leave WPP in March 2027, closing a remarkable chapter that spans three decades of leadership. Currently serving as Global CEO of VML and CEO of WPP Creative, Cook has decided to pursue new ventures, though he will remain in his roles until March to oversee a collaborative transition.  

Cook’s career has been defined by his role in shaping VML from a fledgling Kansas City digital agency into one of the world’s most admired creative networks. In 2024, he orchestrated the landmark merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson to form VML, uniting brand experience, commerce, data and enterprise technology across 55 markets. Two years later, he assumed leadership of WPP Creative, a portfolio spanning VML, Ogilvy, Grey, Burson, AKQA, Landor and Design Bridge & Partners, created under WPP’s Elevate28 strategy.  

Under Cook’s stewardship, VML has consistently ranked among the industry’s elite, earning accolades at Cannes Lions, the Effies, Ad Age A-List, WARC Creative 100, Campaign US and New York Festivals. In 2026, VML was crowned Campaign’s Global Agency of the Year, cementing its reputation as a powerhouse in creativity and effectiveness. The agency has also been recognised by Forrester and Gartner for its leadership in commerce and customer experience.  

Cindy Rose, CEO of WPP, paid tribute to Cook’s legacy: “Jon’s contribution to VML, WPP and our 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.”  

Cook himself acknowledged the difficulty of his decision: “This has been one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. But after three decades of pouring everything I have into this agency and 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.”  

Eric Campbell, currently CEO of VML and WPP Creative in North America, will succeed Cook as Global CEO of VML in March 2027, while continuing his North American leadership role. Campbell, a 25-year veteran of VML, has held pivotal positions including Global President of VMLY&R and Global Chief Client Officer. Rose expressed confidence in his appointment: “Eric has been central to VML’s success for more than 25 years. He knows this business deeply, understands what makes VML special, and has the trust of teams and clients worldwide.”  

Cook and Campbell will work closely over the coming months to ensure continuity, marking a generational handover at one of the world’s most influential creative networks.