Mark Read will step down as Chief Executive Officer of WPP at the end of 2025, bringing to a close a tenure marked by significant transformation and challenges for the global advertising giant. Appointed CEO in 2018 after the departure of company founder Sir Martin Sorrell, Read guided WPP through a period of major industry disruption, digital transformation, and global economic uncertainty.
During his leadership, Read oversaw a comprehensive restructuring of the group, streamlining operations and pushing for greater integration of creative, media, and technology services. He championed the adoption of data-driven marketing, investments in artificial intelligence, and the repositioning of WPP as a modern, agile communications group.
Read’s departure comes at a time of heightened competition within the advertising sector, with rivals such as Publicis Groupe and Omnicom strengthening their positions in key global accounts. The recent loss of several major clients, including Mars’ $1.7 billion global media account, has intensified scrutiny over WPP’s strategy and leadership.
WPP’s board is expected to begin the search for a new CEO immediately, with a focus on identifying a leader capable of driving continued transformation, accelerating growth, and navigating the rapidly changing media landscape. Mark Read will remain with the company to ensure a smooth transition until his official departure at the end of the year.
Industry observers note that Read leaves behind a group that is leaner, more focused, and better positioned to compete in an environment defined by technology, data, and integrated solutions. His successor will face the ongoing task of delivering sustained growth, strengthening client relationships, and further evolving WPP’s offer for the next era of marketing and communications.
