MediaPost reported VML Global CEO-WPP Creative CEO Jon Cook is taking a walk toward an undisclosed destination, handing the baton to another VML veteran White man.
So, after orchestrating the epic erasure of iconic White advertising agency brands—and eliminating thousands of jobs—Cook is bailing out of the global flaming dumpster, undoubtedly with a golden parachute.
Cook is scheduled to remain in his leadership roles until March 2027.
In contrast, WPP drones don’t enjoy the privileged luxury of such advance notice—and their exits only include golden showers.
VML Global CEO Jon Cook Set To Depart As Campbell Prepares To Succeed Him
By Steve McClellan
Jon Cook, Global CEO of VML and CEO of WPP Creative, is leaving WPP to pursue the next chapter of his career, the holding company announced this morning. Cook will remain in his leadership roles through March 2027. He was a co-founder of VML in the 1990’s.
Another VML veteran, Eric Campbell, currently CEO of VML and WPP Creative in North America, has been named to succeed Cook as Global CEO of the agency, while continuing as CEO of WPP Creative North America.
Cook has spent three decades helping guide and shape VML from an emerging digital agency in Kansas City into one of WPP’s largest creative networks. In 2024, he led the effort to combine what was then VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, bringing together brand experience, customer experience, commerce, data and enterprise technology across more than 55 markets.
In February 2026, Cook took on the additional responsibility of CEO of WPP Creative when that unit was created as part of WPP CEO Cindy Rose’s efforts to return the company to growth. WPP Creative includes VML, Ogilvy, Grey, Burson, AKQA, Landor and Design Bridge & Partners.
Rose stated: “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.”
Added Cook: “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.”
Campbell has been with VML for more than 25 years and has held central leadership roles, including President of VML, Global President of VMLY&R, Global Chief Client Officer and CEO of VML North America.
WPP said that further details on the leadership structure at WPP Creative would be announced soon.
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