Kelly Clark returns to WPP as global CEO of GroupM

GroupM, the media investment group of WPP, has appointed Kelly Clark as global CEO. Clark replaces Dominic Proctor who is stepping down from his role as global president, but will remain with WPP to work on “strategic projects”.

Clark, pictured, most recently served as the CEO of GroupM in North America from 2012 to 2015 before leaving to spend more time with his family.

Prior to that, he was the worldwide CEO for Maxus between 2008 and 2012. He served as GroupM’s CEO for Europe from 2005 to 2008, and earlier he held CEO roles with Mindshare in the UK and in Asia Pacific. Clark began his WPP career at J. Walter Thompson New York in 1988.

“Kelly has demonstrated inspiring leadership at every turn in his career, and he has earned the respect of our clients and our people,” said GroupM’s global chairman Irwin Gotlieb. “He has broad experience in North America, Asia and Europe and is focused intensely on delivering advantage to our clients.

“I am looking forward to working with him to build on our momentum.”

Clark added: “GroupM is in a great position to help our clients win in an incredibly competitive marketplace. Our investments in data, technology and most importantly, our talented people will help us achieve that ambition.

“It will require a lot of change and a united focus, so I can’t wait to get started with Irwin and our leadership team.”