Jon Cook to Leave WPP in March 2027; Eric Campbell to Lead VML Globally

Leadership transition defined at VML, pending at WPP Creative

Jon Cook, global chief executive of VML and head of WPP Creative, will leave the group in March 2027, after three decades at the company. He will remain in his current roles until then to facilitate the transition.

Eric Campbell, currently VML’s chief executive and head of WPP Creative in North America, will take over the global leadership of VML. He will also retain responsibility for WPP Creative in that region. The global leadership of the creative unit, however, remains undecided: WPP has not announced who will fill the position or how the leadership will be structured.

The company has said it will provide more information about the structure at a later date. Campbell will begin working with Cook on the handover of his global responsibilities at VML.

Departure follows creative reorganization

The departure comes just months after Cook took on broader responsibilities. In February 2026, he assumed leadership of WPP Creative, a unit integrated into the group’s Elevate28 strategy, which brings together VML, Ogilvy, Grey, Burson, AKQA, Landor, and Design Bridge & Partners.

During his career, Cook contributed to VML’s international expansion and, in 2024, led the integration of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson to create the agency’s current structure. According to information published by outlets that covered the announcement, VML operates in more than 55 markets.

Cook’s departure therefore leaves two separate questions: Campbell will take the helm of VML worldwide, but it is still unknown who will lead WPP Creative globally after its current head leaves.

Campbell knows the network; Cook has not detailed his next steps

Campbell has been associated with VML for more than 25 years. During his career, he has held roles including agency president, global president of VMLY&R, global client lead, and chief executive of VML in North America.

WPP chief executive Cindy Rose thanked Cook for his contribution and highlighted his commitment to the transition period. She said Campbell knows the business and has the trust of its teams and clients.

Cook, for his part, explained that after three decades at the agency and WPP, the time has come to “build something new.” He has not revealed what his next professional venture will be. His departure will take effect in March 2027.