WPP has named Microsoft executive Cindy Rose as its next CEO amid mounting pressure from big client losses and AI disruption. Why it matters: The ad giant is in the thick of an identity reset, and Rose's Big Tech background underscores its bid to modernize and compete in the AI era.

The Microsoft exec was hiding in plain sight as the next leader of embattled WPP, but what will her vision look like?

WPP has announced that Cindy Rose has been appointed as chief executive officer (CEO) of the company, effective 1 September 2025. Cindy succeeds Mark Read who will step down as CEO on the same date.WPP taps Cindy Rose,