Published on: October 6, 2026
WPP has announced a leadership transition at VML, with Global CEO Jon Cook set to leave the company after three decades. Cook will continue in his current positions through March 2027 to support the transition before departing to pursue the next stage of his career.
Cook has spent 30 years helping build VML from its beginnings as a digital agency in Kansas City into a global creative network. In 2024, he led the formation of VML through the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, combining capabilities across brand experience, customer experience, commerce, data and enterprise technology in more than 55 markets.
In February 2026, Cook also became CEO of WPP Creative, taking responsibility for a portfolio that includes VML, Ogilvy, Grey, Burson, AKQA, Landor and Design Bridge & Partners. WPP established WPP Creative as part of its Elevate28 strategy.
During Cook’s tenure, VML received recognition across major creative and effectiveness platforms, including Cannes Lions, the Effies, Ad Age A-List, WARC Creative 100, Campaign US and New York Festivals. The network was also recognised by Forrester and Gartner for its capabilities in commerce and customer experience.
Most recently, VML was named Campaign’s 2026 Global Agency of the Year. At Cannes Lions, the network was ranked #2 Creative Network of the Year and secured the highest number of Gold Lions among networks.
Says Cindy Rose, CEO of WPP: “Jon’s contribution to VML, WPP and our entire 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 for WPP, and I appreciate his commitment to partner with us through March 2027 to ensure our teams, clients, and new leaders maintain their incredible momentum.”
Cook said: “This has been one of the hardest decisions I have ever made in my life. But after three decades of pouring everything I have into this agency and all of 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. I am immensely proud of our teams, the iconic work we produce with our clients and the one-of-a-kind culture we have built. I look forward to working closely with Cindy and the WPP and VML leadership teams over the coming months to execute a thoughtful transition.”
Eric Campbell, currently CEO of VML and WPP Creative in North America, will succeed Cook as Global CEO of VML in March 2027. He will continue in his role as CEO of WPP Creative North America.
Campbell has been part of VML for more than 25 years and has held several senior positions across the organisation, including President of VML, Global President of VMLY&R, Global Chief Client Officer and CEO of VML North America.
He will begin working alongside Cook immediately as part of the transition of global responsibilities.
Rose added: “Eric has been central to VML’s success for more than 25 years and has helped shape the client relationships, operational strength and culture that make the agency so distinctive. He knows this business deeply, he understands what makes VML special, and he has the trust of teams and clients around the world. I am delighted that he will lead VML into its next era, working closely with Jon and the leadership team to ensure a seamless transition and continued momentum for our clients and people.”
WPP said further information on the broader leadership structure of WPP Creative will be announced in due course. Cook has not yet disclosed details about his plans after leaving WPP.
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